Paving the Way for a Digital Future: National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023

The National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023 aims to bridge the digital divide between developed and developing nations by advancing the goals of the National Digital and Future Skills Strategy. The conference brings together government agencies, organized business and labor, academia, scientific organizations, and civil society to exchange ideas and pool resources. Attendees will participate in stimulating discussions and explore innovative approaches to propel South Africa towards a digitally inclusive future. This groundbreaking event signifies South Africa’s commitment to equipping its citizens with the essential skills and knowledge required to flourish in an increasingly digital world.

Bridging the Digital Divide

As we swiftly progress into the digital age, a glaring divide is evident between developed nations and their developing counterparts. This rift originates from the latter’s shortage of skills and resources necessary for adapting to the rapidly growing digital technologies pervading various aspects of life. As a result, millions of deserving individuals are unable to participate in the ever-growing digital economy.

To address this issue and ensure that no one is left behind, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies has teamed up with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ) and The National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa (NEMISA). Together, they have planned the National Digital and Future Skills Conference, scheduled for 26-27 October 2023 at the East London International Convention Centre in Eastern Cape.

Centered on the theme “Realising the Digital Economy and Scaling-Up Skills Development to Support Innovation and the Digital Revolution,” the conference aims to advance the goals of the National Digital and Future Skills Strategy. It aspires to promote collaboration among stakeholders in narrowing the widespread digital skills gap in society. By creating a framework that prioritizes crucial digital and future skills, the conference ensures a well-organized and integrated implementation across government agencies and various sectors.

Fostering Collaboration and Assessing Progress

Considering the significant investments needed to effectively implement digital skills in any nation, the digital and future skills program calls for cooperative efforts from government agencies, organized business and labor, academia, scientific organizations, and civil society. The 2023 National Digital and Future Skills Conference serves as a venue for these essential participants to come together, exchange ideas, and pool resources to realize the common goal of digital skills proliferation.

The conference also offers a chance to review the advancements made since the 2022 conference in Mhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal. Stakeholders will assess the degree to which the resolutions from that event have been executed and the subsequent impact on the sector.

Boasting an expected attendance of over 300 individuals, including the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mr. Mondli Gungubele, and the Deputy Minister, Mr. Philly Mapulane, the conference is set to be a groundbreaking event. The executive leadership of collaborating organizations will also be present, providing a distinctive opportunity for professionals from diverse sectors to engage with industry leaders and acquire valuable insights into South Africa’s digital transformation journey.

Exploring Strategies and Shaping the Digital Landscape

The National Digital and Future Skills Conference is more than just a meeting of experts and policymakers. It signifies a substantial leap forward in South Africa’s commitment to addressing the challenges brought by the digital age and capitalizing on the myriad opportunities it presents. The conference epitomizes the nation’s dedication to equipping its citizens with the essential skills and knowledge required to flourish in an increasingly digital world.

Throughout the conference, attendees will participate in stimulating discussions and investigate innovative approaches that can propel South Africa towards a digitally inclusive future. From education and training initiatives to cultivating public-private partnerships, the conference will delve into a wide range of topics, all aimed at harnessing the power of technology for the nation’s betterment.

In conclusion, the 2023 National Digital and Future Skills Conference holds the potential to usher in a brighter, more inclusive, and digitally empowered South Africa. The event is set to assemble the finest minds, ideas, and resources that will shape the nation’s digital landscape and ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to benefit from the digital revolution.

What is the National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023?

The National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023 is an event organized by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ), and The National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa (NEMISA) to bridge the digital divide between developed and developing nations by advancing the goals of the National Digital and Future Skills Strategy.

Who can attend the National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023?

Government agencies, organized business and labor, academia, scientific organizations, and civil society are invited to attend the National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023.

When and where will the National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023 take place?

The National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023 is scheduled for 26-27 October 2023 at the East London International Convention Centre in Eastern Cape.

What is the theme of the National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023?

The theme of the National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023 is “Realising the Digital Economy and Scaling-Up Skills Development to Support Innovation and the Digital Revolution.”

What is the goal of the National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023?

The goal of the National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023 is to promote collaboration among stakeholders in narrowing the widespread digital skills gap in society and to create a framework that prioritizes crucial digital and future skills.

Who will be attending the National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023?

The National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023 is expected to have over 300 attendees, including the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mr. Mondli Gungubele, and the Deputy Minister, Mr. Philly Mapulane. The executive leadership of collaborating organizations will also be present.

What topics will be discussed at the National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023?

The National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023 will delve into a wide range of topics, including education and training initiatives, cultivating public-private partnerships, and other innovative approaches to advance the nation’s digital transformation journey.

What is the significance of the National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023?

The National Digital and Future Skills Conference 2023 signifies South Africa’s commitment to addressing the challenges brought by the digital age and capitalizing on the opportunities it presents. It aims to equip its citizens with the essential skills and knowledge required to flourish in an increasingly digital world, ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to benefit from the digital revolution.