Information and Communication Technology for Development (ICT4D) is an emerging field in the development agendas especially within the developing countries.
It refers to the application of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) as the key for social and economic development. As a result, literacy levels and skills in learning can be improved; employment opportunities increased; information exchange facilitated; better health services provided and business practices and productivity enhanced.
ICT4D is also seen as an avenue to bridge the digital, social and economic divides. It covers a number of areas which include poverty alleviation, capacity building, digital divide, cybersecurity, egovernance and elearning.
ICT4D within CARICOM Secretariat
ICT4D is a programme in the Directorate of Trade and Economic Integration (TEI) within the CARICOM Secretariat.
The goal of its work programme is to advance the development of the people of the Caribbean Community using Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) as a catalyst for the transformation of the Community into a knowledge-based society.