Introduction & Background
New advances in technology is spurring productivity growth and increasing innovation and competitiveness. Enabled by latest IMT networks i.e. 5G, data processing is facilitating the increasing use of Artificial Intelligence and machine learning in multiple sectors. All these have a significant impact on our daily lives and growth prospects, by enhancing the ability for countries to participate and compete in new, dynamic and more adaptable work environments.
Indeed, countries reaping the benefit of a digitally supported technological dividend have made rapid advances in automating key sectors of their economy, including agriculture, manufacturing and services. Development of ICT infrastructure, digital technologies and the convergence of broadcasting, telecommunications and informatics offer sizeable opportunities for the implementation of appropriate new technologies by developing countries.
The World Telecommunication Development Conference 2017 (WTDC-17) held in Buenos Aires (Argentina) adopted Objective 2 (Modern and Secure telecommunication/ICT Infrastructure: Foster the development of infrastructure and services, including building confidence and security in the use of telecommunications/ICT). Under this global objective and Asia-Pacific Regional Initiative 3 ( Fostering development of infrastructure to enhance digital connectivity) ITU Regional Office has been in working to assist its membership from the region to maximize the use of new technologies for the development of their information and communication infrastructures and services and building telecommunication/ICT infrastructure though partnerships, bridging the digital standardization gap, conformance and interoperability and spectrum management programmes.
Objective
Discuss the challenges to roll out of next generation digital infrastructures and share best practices for informed decision making.
