In an increasingly digitalized world, the pursuit of empowerment extends beyond technological advancements to ensuring fair access to digital resources and skills. Indonesia, with its diverse socio-economic landscape, relies on collaborative efforts among key stakeholders to bridge the digital gap and empower communities across urban and rural areas. Through partnerships between public and private entities, Indonesia is navigating a path towards comprehensive digital transformation, aiming to connect and empower every Indonesian.
The significance of these initiatives was highlighted during the annual Global DTC Workshop held in Bali from May 14-16, 2024. The event was organized by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) and Cisco; and hosted by the ICT Training Centre (BPPTIK) under the Ministry of Communications, Information and Technology (MoCIT) in collaboration with Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (Indosat or IOH).
As digital technologies reshape society, Indonesia recognizes the importance of including all individuals and communities in this journey toward empowerment. By pooling expertise and resources from various sectors, the nation is laying the groundwork for a future where every Indonesian can benefit from the opportunities presented by the digital era.
Empowering Rural Communities Through Digital Skills Training
One initiative driving empowerment in Indonesia is the collaboration between Indosat, BPPTIK (under MoCIT), and Cisco. Together, they have launched an ICT training program within the Digital Transformation Centers (DTC) framework, under the banner of the Connected Generation (Generasi Terkoneksi/GenSi) program. This program is designed to provide digital skills training for communities residing in Indonesia's rural areas, with a particular focus on the youth and women.
Steve Saerang, SVP Head of Corporate Communications at Indosat, emphasized the significance of GenSi as a commitment to connect and empower all Indonesians. He stressed the importance of empowered human resources in realizing the full benefits of technological advancement, highlighting their persistent efforts to bridge the digital gap, especially in rural areas. Collaborating with BPPTIK (under MoCIT) and Cisco, they envision unlocking vast possibilities, optimizing local potential, and fostering digital economic growth nationwide.
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Hary Budiarto, Head of Human Resources Development Agency at the MoCIT of Indonesia, described the collaboration as a form of human resource development within the ITU Digital Transformative Center framework. He emphasized the program's aim: to provide digital knowledge and skills to young talents, women, and SMEs in Indonesia's outer regions, catalyzing their contribution to the evolving digital era.
Marina Kacaribu, Managing Director of Cisco Indonesia, stressed the importance of educating and upskilling people to ensure equitable participation in the digital economy. She highlighted the essential role of public-private collaboration in cultivating digital talents and bridging the digital divide. In partnership with Indosat and BPPTIK (under MoCIT), Cisco aims to extend the reach of its Networking Academy to eastern Indonesia, providing tailored learning modules to support participants in launching digital entrepreneurship endeavors. Through this collaboration, they aim to significantly impact and equip Indonesia's rural communities to navigate the complexities of the digital era.
She also highlighted Cisco's commitment to powering an inclusive future through initiatives like the Digital Talent Scholarship and Connected Generation programs, developed in collaboration with partners such as KOMINFO and Indosat.
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Global Collaboration Towards Digital Literacy
Indonesia's commitment to digital empowerment extends beyond its borders. This commitment is evident in its role as the selected host for the yearly Global Digital Transformation Center (DTC) Workshop. Organized by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) and Cisco, this workshop underscores Indonesia's notable progress in advancing digital literacy, particularly within underserved communities.
Nezar Patria, Vice Minister of Communications and Informatics of Indonesia, underscored the importance of digital literacy, telecommunications, and connectivity for enhancing the nation's global competitiveness. He expressed that the government shall offer its full support for collaborative initiatives aimed at realizing Indonesia's long-term vision of Golden Indonesia 2045, emphasizing the pivotal role of technology in this endeavor.
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Dr. Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, Director of the Telecommunication Development Bureau at the ITU, reaffirmed the ITU's commitment to advancing global digital transformation and promoting digital inclusion. He emphasized the significance of collaboration between government and industry players in closing the digital skills gap and highlighted the success and expansion of the Digital Transformation Centres initiative.
Vikram Sinha, President Director and CEO of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, humbly expressed his participation in global digitalization efforts and shared Indosat's vision: to connect and empower every Indonesian. He emphasized the importance of bridging the digital divide by reaching both major cities and rural areas, aligning with Indosat's mission, which revolves around connectivity and empowerment.
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The collaborative endeavors between these stakeholders reflect Indonesia's steadfast commitment to empowering its citizens through digital transformation and literacy. By providing access to digital skills and resources, these initiatives are not only driving socio-economic progress but also positioning Indonesia as a frontrunner in the global digital arena.
As the nation strides forward on its path towards a digitally inclusive future, the importance of collaborative efforts cannot be overstated. Together, Indosat, BPPTIK (under MoCIT), Cisco, and other partners are paving the way for an empowered Indonesia in the digital age, where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the nation's growth and prosperity.
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