Information, communications sector ‘fragmented’

THE information and communications technology sector is “fragmented” and constrained from being as effective as it could be, says Energy, Communication and Information Technology Minister Sam Basil.
He told an ICT stakeholder workshop in Port Moresby yesterday that his department needed to work with stakeholders in the sector to address important issues.
“This workshop is very long overdue. None of us here can deny that the ICT sector here is fragmented and very vulnerable,” he said.
“In fact, no one seems to have a thorough knowledge and handle on what is going on within the ICT sector.
“It seems that anyone can take on whatever ICT project at will regardless of what sector or ministry they serve under.”
He said these were compounded by the lack of capacity in the Department of Communication and Information Technology which had resulted in many ICT projects being done below acceptable and professional standards.
“This embarrassing situation must be halted immediately,” he said.
“This workshop is part of that change.
“I am aware that alot of the blame has been put on my department but I am equally aware that it is also limited in its capacity in funding and networking.”
Basil said the workshop was to make ICT become a one-stop-shop in the department.