National ICT Strategy 2012-201 7 Towards a Digital Society and Knowledge-based Economy National ICT Strategy 2012-2017 Towards a Digital Society and Knowledge-based Economy Message from the Minister The world is witnessing a revolution in information and communications technology ICT the scope of which stretches far beyond the realm of the sector itself No country seeking real sustainable development and progress can hope to achieve these aims without a strong ICT sector in place to drive the necessary change In the midst of this revolution in information and communications technology Egypt witnessed a different kind of revolution at the beginning of 2011 a peaceful popular political and social revolution In the 25 January Revolution ICT tools and systems and the use of social networks in particular played a major role in events This revolution changed not only Egypt’s future path but also the way Egyptians view ICT tools and systems which have created an important platform for expression of views and in public affairs Various factors have contributed to boosting the role of the internet in politics In Egypt internet access has expanded significantly over recent years among all sectors of society particularly among youth Indeed there has been a clear transformation in internet usage patterns across the Arab world in recent years with a marked increase in use of the internet as a means and arena for political activity The ICT sector in the next phase should focus on adapting ICTs to find solutions to issues of concern to the community While this process has indeed already begun the sector should develop a community vision based on the principle that development should occur not only in the public service sector but also in the managerial 2 3 approach of the state and its constituent bodies This will allow Egypt to achieve a transformation embracing digital citizenship in a technological society that in its own way will be as impressive and far reaching as the change brought about by the 25 January Revolution I am looking forward to supporting the start of a new era for the ICT sector in Egypt building on past successes and lessons learnt I am confident that more Egyptians will join the information community working together to establish the foundations of a new economy based on knowledge and sustainable development There are of course numerous factors to consider in maximizing the role of the ICT sector in development In this new strategy we have therefore addressed a broad range of actions in a framework of collective action targeting greater success and progress for the Egyptian ICT sector and for the other sectors of the economy I would like to express my gratitude at being offered the opportunity to take over the leadership of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology MCIT at such a critical stage in Egypt’s history I am pleased to present the National ICT Strategy for 2012-2017 which results from the vision and efforts of an integrated team working in collaboration with various actors in the community I am honored to present this document to you on behalf of the ministry and to be part of the team responsible for not only supporting the future development of the national ICT sector but also for shaping up new Egypt Acknowledgements The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology presents its sincere appreciation and gratitude to each of the following departments for their contribution to the enrichment of this document through various programs recommendations and feedback The Information Infrastructure Division Telecommunications and Resources Department Central Department of Engineering Affairs Information Documentation and Decision Support Center International Relations Division Egypt ICT for Development ICTs for People with Disabilities Initiative Legislation Committee and Technical Bureau of the Minister of Communications and Information Technology Much appreciation is due also to all organizations affiliated with the ministry that have contributed to enriching this strategy through various programs and projects the National Telecommunication Regulatory Authority NTRA the Egyptian National Post Organization ENPO the Information Technology Industry Development Agency ITIDA the Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center TIEC the Center for Documentation of Cultural and Natural Heritage CULTNAT the Information Technology Institute ITI and the National Telecommunication Institute NTI Special thanks are extended to the members of the ICT Strategy Formulation Committee for their continuous support guidance and feedback It is our duty to express our gratitude to all ministries of the Arab Republic of Egypt that took part in crystallizing the framework as well as many of the ideas and concepts included in the document Special thanks to the experts and representatives of civil society the media and the private sector who reviewed the document and contributed by guiding us at various stages of the project Finally we present our thanks and appreciation to the members of the Transport Committee of the People’s Assembly who provided us with a valuable opportunity to display the outline of the strategy and offered useful and constructive feedback We hope that we have succeeded in presenting our views in a transparent and clear manner and that this document will contribute to boosting work and achievement in Egypt’s promising and ambitious ICT sector 4 5 Executive Summary The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology is working to support an Egyptian ICT sector that plays an active role in facilitating the achievement of political social and economic goals during the current stage of democratic transition in Egypt MCIT therefore aims to build on Egyptians’ positive view of ICT tools and systems adapting and developing them to serve the requirements of a democratic society This will include the development of applications that support digital citizenship opening avenues for community participation in social issues and protecting freedoms and social justice Vision Towards digital citizenship and an advanced knowledge-based economy and a smooth transition to democracy Mission To develop a democratic knowledge-based society that supports a strong Egyptian economy and is based on equitable access to information and communications services guaranteeing the digital rights of citizens and the development of a national industry based on human talent and creativity To achieve this mission four strategic objectives have been identified Supporting the democratic transition Promoting digital citizenship and information society Promoting sustainable development 6 7 Strengthening the national economy The National ICT Strategy for 2012-2017 focuses on a number of quantitative targets related to important indicators With regard to supporting the democratic transition and promoting the information community and digital citizenship the aims are to raise the number of high-speed internet subscribers in Egypt to 13 million by 2015 to have personal computers in at least 40% of Egyptian households within five years and to establish a national network of 1 000 Technology Homes On the development front targets include providing all schools and educational institutions with high-speed internet access promoting the use of electronic signature applications in three government agencies raising the volume of e-commerce by 20% increasing the proportion of e- banking customers using online or mobile banking to 30% and improving Egypt’s ranking in the field of Arabic digital content by increasing the number of trusted websites by 8-10 % With regard to strengthening the economy the targets are to maintain ICT sector growth rates of 7-10% over the next five years while increasing the sector’s contribution to national income to 5% to raise revenues generated from outsourcing services to $2 5 billion and from intellectual property to $1 billion to expand the volume of investment in the ICT sector by 20% to LE 55 billion and to boost exports of software and embedded software within two years to $500 million Another important factor is employment with plans to increase the number of professionals working in outsourcing to 75 000 in IT to 30 000 and in innovation and entrepreneurship to 10 000 The strategy also includes the expansion of the national network of technology parks to 20 and the growth of Egypt Post as a primary savings facility by a yearly average of about 15% With regard to access and coverage for highspeed internet and mobile services MCIT aims to achieve Geographic coverage for fixed internet services for 75% of Egyptian households at 2 megabits per second Mbps by 2015 and 90% of households at 25 Mbps by 2021 Availability of 3G mobile services for 98% of the population by 2015 and 4G mobile services for 90% of the population by 2021 4 5 million households approximately 22% of Egyptian households subscribing to high-speed internet services by 2015 and 9 million households by 2021 8 million subscribers to mobile internet services by 2015 and 14 million subscribers by 2021 emocratic rting the d transition Suppo The strategy also addresses the legislative environment required for the coming phase This involves the amendment of a number of existing laws Telecommunications Law No 10 of 2003 for example contains certain articles that require amendment in line with Egypt’s democratic transition that will promote political openness and protect freedom of expression Promotin g digital citizensh ip and informatio n society evelopment ustainable d Promoting s Strengthening the na tional economy 8 9 50% of government agencies connected to the internet at 25 Mbps and at least one public access point at 25 Mbps serving 50% of localities by 2015 and all government agencies connected to the internet at 25 Mbps and one public access point serving all major centers and localities by 2021 Additionally a number of new laws and regulations will be prepared drafted and activated covering areas including freedom of information cyber security and e-commerce There are also plans to develop labor laws related to working at home and part-time and temporary employment for university students which will increase the number of people working in outsourcing The strategy will be implemented through a number of strategic pillars International Cooperation ICT Innovation and Entrepreneurship ICT Industry Development Digital Citizenship Human Capacity Building Government ICT Infrastructure and Digital Services and Telecommunications and Postal Service Infrastructure The general policies of the strategy cover green ICT Arabic digital content cloud computing digital identity management access to information e-commerce mobile applications for development manufacturing of tablet computers for education open-source software and empowering people with disabilities The strategic pillars include specific initiatives The Digital Identity Management Initiative The Educational Reform using ICTs Cloud Computing and Tablet Computer Initiative The Arabic Digital Content Initiative Back to Africa Initiative and ICT for Empowering People with Disabilities Initiative PWDs In addition to the high-speed Internet Initiative which was launched in 2011 eMisr In total the strategy comprises over 40 programs and 120 projects Strategic Goals Strategic Goals Strategic Axes Telecommunications and Postal Service Infrastructure Government ICT Infrastructure and Digital Services Human Capacity Building Program to enhance cooperation and interaction between all parties in the postal sector Cybersecurity program Digital identity management program ICT for Illiteracy Eradication Initiative Promoting Digital Citizenship and Information Society Program to raise the efficiency of postal networks Program to modernize and diversify postal products and services National Broadband Initiative Green ICT initiative E-signature activation program e-Commerce program Initiative for education development using IT cloud computing and the Egyptian Educational Tablet Computer Green ICT initiative Arabic digital e-Content initiative Program to promote research and support researchers Olympiad in Informatics Outsourcing and IT services training program at the Arab level ICT Empowering People with Disabilities Back to Africa initiative Training for IT trainers program Promoting Sustainable Development Program to support environmental protection and sustainable growth Program to improve access to postal services through ICTs and promote innovation in postal service provision Programs to develop State sectors Healthcare services Educational services Agricultural services Development of commercial sector activities through chambers of commerce Development of financial sector activities Improvement of the work environment in administrative entities Legislative services Housing sector People’s Assembly and Shoura Council work systems Transport system Security system Tourism system Infrastructure in marginalized regions Ministry of Foreign Affairs system Ministry of Culture system National Broadband Initiative ICT certificate scholarship program “Computer Competence Certificate C3 ” Technology Homes program Strengthening the National Economy Supporting the Democratic Transition Program to enhance international alliances National Broadband Initiative Program to modernize and diversify postal products and services Digital Citizenship National Broadband Initiative Arabic digital e-Content initiative E-signature activation program e-Commerce program Initiative for education development using IT cloud computing and the Egyptian Educational TABLET Strategic Axes Supporting the Democratic Transition ICT Industry Development ICT Innovation and Entrepreneurship Human development program Egyptian Olympiad in Informatics Education development program for Egyptian universities EDU Egypt Professional training program Specialized training program Centers of excellence Training program International Cooperation Program for the production and dissemination of information Activation of a partnership with the ministries agencies and companies operating in the ICT sector as the main sources of data National Broadband Initiative Promoting Digital Citizenship and Information Society Promoting Sustainable Development ICT Empowering People with Disabilities Internet Safety Digital identity management initiative Technology Homes program Program to raise inclusion of rural and marginalized areas through ICTs ICT Empowering People with Disabilities Program to support civil society organizations through ICTs Program to improve access to postal services through ICTs and promote innovation in postal service provision IT exports promotion program Technology zones development program Outsourcing and IT services training program Initiative for education development using IT cloud computing and the Egyptian Educational TABLET Industry development Program to support SMEs through ICTs Outsourcing and IT services training program ICT centers of excellence program E-learning program to promote use of technology in support of innovation and entrepreneurship Green ICT initiative Cooperation with international organizations Strengthening the National Economy Entrepreneurship support program Program to promote research and support researchers ICT centers of excellence program E-learning program to promote use of technology in support of innovation and entrepreneurship Back to Africa initiative Bilateral cooperation Regional cooperation Strategic development partners program Quantitative Indicators and Goals Legislation General Applicable Policies digital identity management green technology access to information empowering people with disabilities mobile device applications 10 11 Strategy Drafting Methodology The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology was established in 1999 to develop the national ICT sector Highlights of MCIT’s journey so far include the release of the National Communications Plan in 2000 the Strategy for Building the Information Society in 2003 the IT Industry National Development Strategy in 2006 and the National Strategy for Communications and Information Technology in 2007 The National ICT Strategy for 2012-2017 is another important stage of this process Yet it is also significant as its release comes at the beginning of a new era for Egypt As such the strategy was formulated for implementation in an atmosphere of political and economic change to support the country’s transition while contributing to the development of the communications sector both regionally and internationally As with previous strategies it focuses on integrating ICTs across all sectors to serve the national development priorities which include preserving natural resources and the environment Primary Considerations In the formulation of this strategy the primary considerations were the political and economic changes taking place in Egypt the development of the communications sector both regionally and internationally and Egypt’s national development priorities in addition to the achievements and challenges of the sector over the last decade Work Methodology The methodology followed in the drafting of the strategy relied on participation and dialogue between MCIT and affiliated entities in addition to community dialogue with government entities the private sector and civil society organizations Work began following the formation of a specialized committee by the Minister of Communications and Information Technology mandated to draft the strategy The committee included representatives from various departments of MCIT and its affiliated entities The general framework and main features of the strategy were defined and reviewed in cooperation with the executive committee of the ministry In February 2012 an executive summary of the strategy was introduced before the People’s Assembly and the Cabinet In addition dialogues were initiated with the wider community including meetings with representatives from the private sector civil society and the media As ICT impacts on performance across all sectors of the economy MCIT held a meeting with representatives from all government ministries to ensure their needs would be reflected within the new ICT strategy 12 13 This meeting included a review of efforts exerted over the previous 10 years an overview of the features of the National ICT Strategy for 2012-2017 and discussion of the future plans of the various ministries in this context In March 2012 a detailed presentation on the ICT sector was held for the Transport and Information Committee of the People’s Assembly highlighting the progress of the sector through successive development strategies since 2000 and the features of the new strategy The drafting team incorporated relevant input from the attendees into the current document Strategy Framework The present document is divided into two main parts The first part includes the vision mission aims and policies for the ICT sector from 2012 to 2017 as well as the most important legislative amendments that will be formulated during this period The second part introduces the seven main pillars of the strategy and their corresponding programs and the six targeted initiatives to be implemented through the executive plan of the strategy The executive plan of the strategy including all the projects to be implemented through the strategic axes and targeted initiatives is presented in a separate document Table of Contents 14 15 Table of Contents 1 Towards a Digital Society and Knowledge-based Economy 1 1 The ICT Sector Past and Present 2 Vision and Mission 3 Strategic Objectives and Quantitative Targets 4 Developing Relevant Legislation 4 1 Telecommunications Law No 10 of 2003 4 2 Freedom of Information Draft Law 4 3 Cybersecurity Draft Law 5 General and Targeted Strategic Policies 6 Strategic Pillars and Executive Work Programs 6 1 Telecommunications and Postal Service Infrastructure 6 2 Government ICT Infrastructure and Digital Services 6 3 Human Capacity Building 6 4 Digital Citizenship 6 5 ICT Industry Development 6 6 ICT Innovation and Entrepreneurship 6 7 International Cooperation 7 Targeted Strategic Initiatives 7 1 Digital Identity Management Initiative 7 2 Arabic Digital Content Initiative 7 3 The Educational Reform Initiative using ICTs Cloud Computing and the Tablet Computer 7 4 Back to Africa Initiative 7 5 ICT for Empowering People with Disabilities PWDs 7 6 Green ICT Initiative 8 Conclusion 8 1 Monitoring and Evaluation 8 2 Conclusion 1 - Towards a Digital Society and Knowledge-based Economy The ICT revolution has extended the reach of the sector far beyond facilitating communication to the extent that sustainable development in all fields now largely relies on the use of ICTs Egypt’s 25 January Revolution which in early 2011 set the country on the path of political transformation was itself largely influenced by the use of ICTs in particular social networks Aside from the major changes this revolution ushered in for Egypt it has also changed the way Egyptians perceive ICT tools and systems which have created an important platform for them to express their opinions participate in public affairs and join together to find solutions to issues of common concern Since the revolution not only has there been considerable growth in the number of Egyptians using the internet but significant changes in the way the internet is used with one of the more notable shifts being the increase in young people engaging with political rather than entertainment-related content In this context three main features of the internet are clear its interactive nature the absence of a central organizational authority making content online more difficult to control and monitor than traditional media content and the broad social base of users which is not limited by geographic or political boundaries As a result those using the internet are not mere recipients of content but active participants in its formation This has brought about a change in the very nature of communication ordinary members of society are now able to respond and interact Indeed online dialogue is often peer-to-peer in nature reflecting less the social 16 17 position or political affiliation of interlocutors than their opinions on certain topics Some argue that the influence of the internet within society and the prevalence of networking have brought about a shift from hierarchical state to networking community MCIT seeks to embrace this shift and to empower all Egyptians to play a full and active role as digital citizens in the development of their community and society 1 1 The ICT Sector Past and Present The amazing development in ICT usage in Egypt would not have occurred without the technical and institutional boom set in motion by the government since 2000 The newly established Ministry of Communications and Information Technology set out to establish a vibrant and open ICT sector to ensure wide access to fast internet through a solid infrastructure capable of attracting investment and supporting the development of both the sector and the wider economy and to promote the training necessary to enable citizens to adapt ICT tools and systems to serve the community and boost the economic performance of the state In 2000 MCIT initiated a National ICT Plan to ensure the spread and effective use of ICT among both individuals and businesses and to establish legislative and regulatory rules to guarantee an open market for ICT services As part of this process MCIT identified best practices critical success factors and potential challenges allowing it to amend ICT policies and restructure the sector in response to real-time needs 1 - Towards a Digital Society and Knowledge-based Economy The Egyptian Information Society Initiative introduced in 2004 achieved tremendous progress in expanding and modernizing the ICT infrastructure It also laid firm foundations for continuous development at a rate at which Egyptian society could adapt reducing the digital divide between different sectors of society by providing access to high-speed internet and ICT tools for individuals and institutions A major success of the initiative was the establishment of an educational base offering all Egyptians the chance to adopt and use ICTs The plan also focused on using ICTs to develop and improve public services particularly in the fields of healthcare and education The 2004 strategy focused on Public Private Partnerships and on fair regulation of the ICT market Recognizing the essential role of ICT in social and economic development MCIT devised the ICT for All program to fulfill two main goals first raising citizens’ quality of life by helping the government improve public service provision through the use of ICTs and the development of a knowledge-based society and second facilitating citizens’ access to computers and high-speed internet raising youth employability through ICT training thus encouraging government employees to undertake internationally accredited ICT certification programs Egypt’s ICT Strategy of 2007 was formulated to build on the progress achieved by the government in partnership with the private sector and civil society 18 19 It focused on establishing local regional and global partnerships attracting investment through a range of incentives and the establishment of technology parks such as Smart Village and Contact Center Park in Maadi A major component of the strategy was the promotion of exports in ICT outsourcing services Strategically located at the crossroads of Europe Africa and the Middle East and enjoying and a large pool of young multilingual and technically proficient human resources Egypt has quickly developed a strong outsourcing industry and positioned itself as a world leader in the field The successful growth of Egypt’s ICT sector is clear in the following indicators During the period 2008 09-2010 11 the ICT sector raised an annual average of LE 33 71 billion in revenues with an average annual growth rate of 11 63% and contributed about 4% of GDP The ICT sector recorded a growth rate of 3 71% in the last quarter of 2011 Between 2006 and 2011 the ICT sector contributed with LE 82 28 billion to the treasury Egyptian exports of cross-border outsourcing services via the internet were worth $1 487 billion a year by the end of 2011 Egypt represented by the Information Technology Industry Development Agency ITIDA was named Offshoring Destination of the Year in 2008 by the National Outsourcing Association received a European Outsourcing Award in 2009 and was ranked fourth in the 2011 Global Services Localization Index published by A T Kearney At the end of 2011 the number of mobile phone subscriptions was about 83 4 million representing a penetration rate of about 102 76% At the end of 2011 the number of internet users in Egypt was about 29 million with an annual growth rate of 26% At the end of 2011 the number of fixedline subscribers reached 8 71 million with a penetration rate of 10 91% The Smart Village technology park has attracted investments amounting to LE 6 billion and created 40 000 job opportunities followed by Cairo Contact Center Park in Maadi 42 000 direct job opportunities and 120 000 indirect job opportunities were created in the last three years through outsourcing and the export of technology services Despite the difficult circumstances of the transition period ushered in by the revolution of January 2011 which has had a major impact on the Egyptian economy the ICT sector has continued to flourish with its growth rate rising to 3% in the fourth quarter of 2011 The sector has also continued to create jobs with a 41% rise in the number of employees of international ICT companies in the Egyptian market in 2011 over the previous year and an 18% rise in those employed by local companies In addition and according to the Ministry of Planning primary indicators for the third quarter of the fiscal year 2011 12 show that the ICT sector recorded an increase in real growth rates from 2 8% in the third quarter of 2010 11 to 8 9% in the third quarter of 2011 12 In November 2011 a report issued by Oxford Business Group noted the significant investments in the Egyptian ICT sector despite the disturbances following the revolution and that the sector is expected to recover to levels seen prior to the revolution and the global financial crisis In 2008 09 the sector attracted investment of LE 14 billion National IC T Plan 200 0 4 ciety 200 o S n io t a form Egypt’s In Egypt’s ICT Strate gy 2007 2 - Vision and Mission Vision Towards digital citizenship and an advanced knowledge-based economy and support the transition to democracy At the current stage the ICT sector needs to keep pace with the democratic transition and to support the country in its quest to realize various political social and economic objectives This can be achieved by investing in Egyptians positive view of ICT tools and systems adapting and developing them to serve the needs of a democratic society This will include the development of applications that support digital citizenship social participation and integration which contribute to enhancing the quality of life and protecting citizens rights and social justice Mission To develop a democratic knowledge-based society that supports a strong Egyptian economy and is based on equitable access to information and communications services guaranteeing the digital rights of citizens and the development of a national industry based on human talent and creativity The objectives for the Egyptian ICT sector in the coming period are as follows Amendment of existing legislation and or enactment of new legislation appropriate to the country s transformation and securing a legislative environment conducive to domestic and foreign investments and which supports the application of e-commerce and e-payment systems 20 21 Expanding the scope of political participation and deepening the democratic practice at all levels using ICT tools and platforms building on the key role these played in the 25 January Revolution Availing information by the government to the public through appropriate channels to establish a relationship of trust based on transparency and interaction These channels should include a forum for community dialogue allowing for an open discussion among citizens and between citizens and government concerning draft laws decrees and national projects Supporting the role civil society organizations active in the ICT sector play in industry development through community exchange and coordination of efforts for the advancement of the sector These efforts facilitate adoption and replication of best practices reduce cost maximize the return on efforts and boost interaction between government institutions involved in or sponsoring efforts related to ICT systems Developing a community vision for the ICT sector based on the principle that development should occur not only in the public service sector but also in the managerial approach of the state and its institutions Such a vision will facilitate the adaptation of ICT tools and systems to community needs and will allow Egypt to move closer to achieving a digital society and digital citizenship Continuation of the shift towards the export of high-value-added services whereby the relevant authorities – MCIT ITIDA and the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones GAFI – work together to promote high-value-added outsourcing services including technical support and software development and localization and to attract innovative companies able to motivate researchers to Egypt Utilization of foreign skills and experience to expand high value added services encouraging innovation and boosting the local skills necessary for the development of the ICT sector Utilization of the latest techniques and technologies the most important of which include those related to 4G technology Web 2 0 Internet Protocol version 6 IPv6 highspeed broadband next-generation networks smart phones and related technologies and environment-friendly ICTs including smart grids and smart buildings Developing the Egyptian software and ICT systems industry and promoting of its exports to establish a strong “Made in Egypt” brand Developing the National Broadband Strategy to ensure universal internet access in Egypt and the introduction of applications in areas of growing importance such as climate change adaptation energy efficiency and sustainable development 3 - Strategic Objectives and Quantitative Targets 3 1 Strategic Objectives The National ICT Strategy for 2012-2017 aims to enable the ICT sector with all its resources to help achieve the objectives of the 25 January Revolution – freedom democracy and social justice – supported by an open and competitive market It also aims at raising the attractiveness of the Egyptian economy to investment increasing revenues for the government and the private sector and facilitating the necessary restructuring of the sector in line with global innovation in the field The strategy targets not only building a strong national industry capable of raising exports and creating job opportunities for youth but also helping to improve the level and quality of public services The realization of this vision requires a process of cumulative building on achievements in support of Egypt s continued development in the realm of ICT with work on various strategic axes in line with the government objective of positioning Egypt as one of the most prominent knowledge-based economies In this context Egypt’s strategic ICT objectives are characterized by applicability and quantitative measurability allowing for easy monitoring of progress The four main strategic objectives of the strategy are Supporting the democratic transition Promoting digital citizenship and information society Promoting sustainable development Strengthening the national economy 22 23 First Supporting the democratic transition 1- Building a knowledge-based society with universal access to information resources This is served by the National Broadband Strategy to expand the geographic coverage of infrastructure providing high-speed internet and to increase internet penetration particularly in marginalized and under privileged areas The strategy aims to raise the number of subscribers to high-speed internet to 13 million by 2015 through the expansion of the broadband network especially last mile links and fiberoptic cables for telephone exchanges The strategy also seeks to raise the proportion of Egyptian households using personal computers to 40% to provide a national network of 1 000 Technology Homes and 2 000 IT Clubs to connect all schools and educational institutions to high-speed internet to expand e-commerce by 20% to increase the number of secured Egyptian websites by 810% to increase the proportion of banking customers using online or mobile banking to 30% and to increase use of e-signature applications by government bodies 2- Digital identity management A large number of digital identity management solutions have been developed in recent years as part of efforts to build public confidence in online transactions and encourage the use of electronic services These ongoing efforts involve developing suitable technological tools and systems promoting greater use of e-commerce e-health and e-government services and developing cyber security systems to prevent identity theft and protect user privacy 3 - Strategic Objectives and Quantitative Targets 3- Maintaining a legislative environment conducive to ICT sector growth and investment 2- Internet-related issues information exchange and access and freedom of expression The strategy involves the amendment of a number of existing laws The Telecommunications Law No 10 of 2003 for example contains certain articles that require amendment in line with Egypt’s democratic transition that will promote political openness and protect freedom of expression Additionally a number of new laws and regulations will be prepared drafted and activated covering areas including freedom of information cybersecurity and e-commerce There are also plans to develop labor laws related to working at home and parttime and temporary employment for university students which will increase the number of people working in outsourcing The strategy focuses on various internet-related issues including the right of citizens to unrestricted communication an open internet strong social networks internet privacy public radio frequencies public websites public digital services freedom of movement and association in cyberspace freedom of expression unrestricted access to information the right of education and access to information technology that could be used indiscriminately and protection of intellectual property Second Promoting digital citizenship and information society 1- Using ICTs to empower the elderly and people with disabilities and serve marginalized and remote communities This will be achieved through developing mail services introducing new services that contribute to solving community problems raising the proportion of households with personal computers to 40% and providing a national network of 1 000 Technology Homes and 2 000 IT Clubs These services give priority to people with disabilities including those who sustained serious injuries during the 25 January Revolution Programs have also been established to raise the ICT skill levels of women particularly those who act as the sole breadwinners of their households 24 25 3- Developing people’s ability to communicate and connect with their environment This will be achieved using information and communication cables and networks to guarantee citizens their right to personal communication and participation open access to means of communication and unrestricted access to information 4- Developing network security systems The strategy includes development of network security systems to support the banking sector and online payment systems in particular The increased use of online payment systems will promote development of the banking system and raise its efficiency 5- Online safety and privacy Successful promotion of online safety requires cooperation between concerned government authorities the private sector and civil society focusing on raising public awareness and empowerment The aim is to enable people to protect themselves and their children online particularly on social networks and in their use of mobile phones Third Promoting sustainable development 1- Improving basic services in the fields of education healthcare environment and ensuring the delivery of subsidy to people who deserve it The success of initiatives targeting integrated development depends largely on the availability of easy-to-access high-quality basic services and the readiness of local communities to evaluate and guarantee the quality of these services In this context the following three basic targets have been identified Poverty reduction and the raising of living standards in identified local communities through empowerment facilitating market access improving education and training services and developing basic infrastructure networks Ensuring local communities ownership of the services received through their involvement in evaluating the quality of these services Building a relationship of trust between the government and local communities Indeed the improvement of the quality and scope of basic services reflects the government’s commitment to respect meet and safeguard citizens rights and to save natural resources in the interest of future generations In support of these objectives the strategy aims to support and develop the key sectors of education and healthcare through the use of ICTs In education this includes the use of computers and high-speed internet in educational institutions across the country and the development of ICT-based education programs and materials especially for university students This will allow Egyptian graduates to compete in the global market and enable Egypt to produce and develop ICT tools and software to international standards In healthcare the strategy targets improvement of services particularly for marginalized and remote communities as well as improving support systems enhancing management and use of state resources and reducing expenditure In this context the development of ICT infrastructure for government bodies that supports digital identity systems will provide citizens with more secure better and faster services and support the transition to a knowledge-based society The strategy also aims to promote the development of mobile services expansion of mobile coverage in underserved areas adherence to global standards in environmental and health protection related to mobile stations development of mobile internet access services use of geo data bases and similar systems and use of ICTs to monitor and facilitate adaptation to climate change 2- Using ICTs to develop legislative judicial and executive institutions The integration of ICTs will raise the efficiency of state institutions developing their performance increasing productivity improving response time facilitating community participation and boosting transparency These efforts include measures to promote the use of e-signature applications by government institutions and to develop key sectors through ICTs integration including industry commerce transport justice and tourism Development of the legislative structure is essential to maintain an environment conducive to the further spread of ICT use 3 - Strategic Objectives and Quantitative Targets Fourth Strengthening the national economy 1- Increasing the ICT sector’s contribution to GDP to 5% 3- Creating an environment conducive to technology innovation and entrepreneurship 5- Strengthening Egypt’s role as a communications hub 8- Enhancing Egypt’s position in ICT in the regional and international arenas This can be achieved through realization of growth rates of 710% for the sector for the next five years a 20% increase in investment to LE 55 billion IT service outsourcing exports of $2 5 billion intellectual property revenues of $1 billion the growth of Egypt Post as a primary savings facility by an annual average of about 15% and the development of a strong Egyptian ICT industry that excels in software development and component manufacturing and assembly Efforts to create an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship include promoting the use of innovative technologies to solve development challenges attracting more foreign investment in innovation and entrepreneurship and supporting the establishment of local companies capable of innovation The strategy which aims at creating 10 000 job opportunities in the field of innovation will boost and accelerate development and help position Egypt as a regional innovation center The strategy aims to strengthen Egypt’s role as a hub for communication cables and transit traffic by building on the country’s various competitive advantages in the field which include its location at the meeting point of Europe Africa and the Middle East and a large pool of young multilingual and technically proficient human resources MCIT in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs aims at raising Egypt’s performance in regional and international ICT indicators Efforts in this regard include strengthening cooperation between Egypt and the international community in the field of ICT with priority given to cooperation with the Nile Basin countries through a technical support program and joint ventures targeting the establishment of a knowledgebased society in the region MCIT also seeks to expand efforts in human capacity building with both the Nile Basin and Arab countries through specialized training programs to boost Egypt s role in international dialogue on ICT and related issues and to expand partnerships between Egypt and countries around the world These efforts will enable Egypt to attract more foreign investment thereby increasing ICT sector growth and creating employment opportunities for young people 2- Enhancing Egypt’s position as a leading global outsourcing destination Efforts to enhance Egypt’s position as a global leader in outsourcing aim at increasing annual export revenues from IT service outsourcing to $2 5 billion and intellectual property to $1 billion Measures to achieve these goals include establishing a national network of 20 technology parks diversification of target markets for Egyptian outsourcing exports promoting greater participation from small and medium enterprises SMEs in IT service outsourcing increasing the number of outsourcing professionals with the aim of creating 75 000 direct job opportunities and 220 000 indirect job opportunities by the end of 2017 attracting more foreign investment through global promotional campaigns and maintaining a strong Egyptian presence in regional and international fairs trade missions and efforts to protect intellectual property rights and personal data 26 27 4- Supporting the digital content industry The strategy seeks to develop Egypt’s digital content industry to promote and preserve Egypt’s culture and heritage and the wider Arab identity and to maintain Egypt’s position as a regional leader in this field The industry will provide important opportunities for the creation of both employment and exports while enriching Arabic content on the internet The strategy aims to increase the competitiveness of the Egyptian digital content industry by encouraging the private sector to produce and develop Arabic digital content promoting development of the skills required by the digital content industry and supporting universities research centers centers of excellence and companies in developing research and tools to enhance digital content particularly for mobile applications 6- Raising the competitiveness of Egyptian youth in ICT This will be achieved through various initiatives that aim at providing vocational training for young people and equipping them with the skills required by the ICT sector especially in the fields of outsourcing and technology innovation These initiatives include the establishment of Technology Homes as the first stage in the creation of the Technology Corridor of Egypt – a virtual corridor that will extend across all governorates Such efforts promote the role of young people in development and attract them to the ICT sector 7- Supporting and developing MSMEs working in ICT Efforts to develop the role of micro small and medium enterprises in the field of ICT are focused on increasing companies’ competitiveness opening new markets and opportunities for production and improving the performance of small and micro enterprises outside of Egypt’s main cities in order to contribute in creating job opportunities and reducing unemployment 3 - Strategic Objectives and Quantitative Targets 3 2 Quantitative Targets First ICT Sector Development Second The National Broadband Strategy Table 3 1 Quantitative Targets in ICT Sector Development Table 3 2 Quantitative Targets of the National Broadband Strategy Aims Area Activities Indicators Linking 10% of telephone exchanges with fiber-optic cables Table 3 1 Quantitative Targets in ICT Sector Development Legislative amendments Labor law Telecom Law Freedom of Information law Linking all schools and educational institutions to Broadband Promoting use of e-signature applications in government agencies to provide government-togovernment G2G and government-to-citizen G2C services Promoting sustainable development Increasing the volume of e-commerce by 20% Increasing the proportion of banking customers using online or mobile banking to 30% Building a knowledge-based society in the Nile Basin region Establishing a regional training center for the Nile Basin countries and Central Africa Digitizing primary-level educational materials by 2015 Conducting an assessment of the size of e-waste in Greater Cairo as a step towards establishing a sustainable model for e-waste management Achieving ICT sector growth rates of 710%- over the next five years Increasing the ICT sector’s contribution to GDP to 5% and boosting annual exports of outsourced IT services to $2 5 billion and intellectual property revenues to $1 billion Increasing investment by 20% to LE 55 billion Strengthening the national economy Increasing savings held with Egypt Post by an annual average of 15% Increasing the number of outsourcing professionals to create 75 000 job opportunities and 30 000 in IT and 10 000 in the field of innovation Establishing a national network of 20 technology parks Increasing the number of secured Egyptian websites by 810%Increasing exports of software and embedded software to $500 million within two years 28 29 targets Penetration Mobile Maintaining a national network of 2 000 IT Clubs Long-term Aims 2021 75% of households have access to 90% of households have access to Broadband 2 Mbps Broadband 25 Mbps 98% of population with 3G coverage 90% of population with 4G LTE coverage 4 5 million 22% households subscribed to 9 million 40% households subscribed to broadband services broadband services 8 million 10% citizens subscribed to 14 million 15% citizens subscribed to mobile broadband services mobile broadband services 50% of public service authorities connected 100% to the internet at 25 Mbps connected to the internet at 25 Mbps 50% of third-level Egyptian administrative All localities Sheyakha and village served by localities served Sheyakha and village by at least one public internet access point at at least one public internet access point at 25 Mbps 25 Mbps Availability Fixed information society Increasing the number of Technology Homes across Egypt to 1 000 targets Mobile citizenship and Table 3 2 Quantitative Targets of the National Broadband Strategy Promoting digital Fixed Increasing the number of subscribers to Broadband to 13 million by 2015 Increasing the proportion of households with personal computers to 40% over the next five years Short-term Aims 2015 Social national targets of public third-level service Egyptian authorities administrative 4 - Developing Relevant Legislation There is no doubt that a supportive legislative environment for the ICT sector is fundamental to its success and its ability to attract local and foreign investment Egypt has issued various laws relating to the ICT sector over the last 10 years covering areas including regulation of telecommunications e-signatures and protection of intellectual property However due to the growth of the sector as well as the fast pace of change in ICT new or amended legislation is required to ensure that the rights of investors employees and the public are fully protected by the law Furthermore since the ICT sector has since its inception been a pillar of the national economy it is important in light of Egypt’s current democratic transition to maintain a legislative environment that boosts the sector’s ability to grow and to support other sectors of the economy In the final quarter of 2011 MCIT formed a committee of legal and technical experts to formulate a set of new regulations for the coming phase and to propose modifications where appropriate to existing regulations Telecommunications Law No 10 of 2003 has since been amended and the committee is soon to present its proposed amendments to E-Signature Law No 15 of 2004 The committee has also begun work to formulate draft laws relating to freedom of information cybersecurity and e-commerce When drafting bills the committee first examines relevant legislation from other countries and reviews reports and opinions from civil society organizations and specialists Committee members then discuss and formulate the draft law which passes through several rounds of review before presentation to parliament 30 31 4 1 Telecommunications Law No 10 of 2003 Telecommunications Law No 10 of 2003 was one of the laws most in need of amendment due to its political dimensions During the 25 January Revolution the governing authorities found legal justification in Articles 65 and 67 of this law to disconnect various means of communication even though this action restricted the basic right of freedom of expression After the revolution MCIT in response to public demand initiated a community dialogue concerning necessary amendments to the law The ministry then formed a committee charged with reviewing existing legislation and drafting new laws in consultation with experts and representatives from the ICT sector and concerned civil society organizations and taking into consideration the views raised through the community dialogue also opened a dialogue and discussion with the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority on this law The committee proposed the amendment of about 55 articles divided into five groups and the addition of articles as follows Group 1 Amendments to definitions applied in the law and items concerning the formation of the National Telecommunication Regulatory Authority board of directors Article 1 Definitions telecommunications broadcasting national security and state media Article 12 Formation and membership of the NTRA board of directors 4 - Developing Relevant Legislation Article 13 Work of the NTRA board of directors licensing rules pertaining to infrastructure establishment and regulations relating to penalties Article 15 Term of office of the executive president of the NTRA Article 25 Licensing obligations Group 2 Amendments to items concerning regulation of the relationship between telecommunications companies Article 28 Linkage between companies Articles 33 and 34 Implementation of the resolution until a final ruling is passed Article 40 Regulation of the relationship between the licensee and the holder of the usufruct Group 3 Amendments to items concerning technological progress Article 54 Spectrum division after the switchover from analog to digital Article 64 Addition of technologies and software to equipment used for encryption Group 4 Amendments to items concerning the authority to disconnect communications The most important amendments to the law involved Articles 65 and 67 which stipulated that in the case of general mobilization the prime minister should determine the competent state authority to manage all telecommunications services networks operators and service providers The conditions for such a general mobilization included natural and environmental disasters and national security threats 32 33 Article 65 original Article 67 original The National Telecommunication Regulatory Authority shall in cooperation with the Armed Forces and the concerned state entities prepare a prior plan for the operation of telecommunications networks to be implemented during natural or environmental disasters and periods of general mobilization according to the provisions of Law No 87 of 1960 concerning general mobilization and any other circumstances related to national security The plan shall be updated periodically in order to secure national defense and security Telecommunications operators and service providers shall be obliged to implement the plan The competent state authorities shall have the power to subject to their administration the telecommunications services and networks of any operator or service provider and those working in the operation and maintenance of these services and networks in case of natural or environmental disaster or during periods of declared general mobilization in accordance with the provisions of Law No 87 of 1960 concerning these and other cases related to national security Article 65 amended The National Telecommunication Regulatory Authority shall in cooperation with the Ministry of Defense and the concerned state entities prepare a detailed prior plan for the operation of telecommunications networks to be implemented during periods of general mobilization according to the provisions of Law No 87 of 1960 concerning general mobilization that shall be limited to tension in international relations the threat of war actual war natural or environmental disasters or crises threatening national security The plan shall include the determination of the authority to which some or all telecommunications services networks operators and service providers as well as those working in the operation and maintenance of these services and networks are subject The plan shall be updated periodically in order to secure national defense and security Telecommunications operators and service providers shall be obliged to implement the plan Article 67 amended In the case of a declaration of general mobilization as provided for in Article 65 the Cabinet shall issue a resolution activating the plan referred to in Article 65 The resolution shall define when implementation of the plan is to begin and the duration of its application In all cases it shall be prohibited to disconnect telecommunications services or to stop their operation entirely or partially except in the case that a written decision has been issued by the President of the Republic following a proposal to do so by the Cabinet In this case the President of the Republic shall within 15 days of issuing such a decision submit a detailed report to the People’s Assembly explaining the reasons for adoption of the measure In the event that the People’s Assembly is not in session the submission shall be made in the first session held In all cases it shall not be permissible to disrupt or stop relief and emergency services Group 5 Amendments to items concerning penalties for crimes including disclosure of information jamming of communications use of encrypted devices and provision of telecommunications services without license in Articles 72 76 79 81 82 84 85 and 87 Group 6 Addition of articles Article 27-bis concerning the share of Egyptian ownership in telecommunications companies and Articles 63-bis and 63-bis a concerning state media and content licenses 4 2 Freedom of Information Draft Law In light of the wide information space in which we live today and in support of Egypt’s democratic transition the Freedom of Information Law will fulfill certain important aspirations of the Egyptian people enshrining in law their right to access data and information and serving to stabilize democratic practice This freedom along with many others prevalent in democratic practice provides an indication of political maturity as with it comes responsibility For this reason the new law relies on specific measures and mechanisms to maintain the right balance between freedom of access to information and preventing misuse of this freedom The basis of this law therefore is that access to information is the norm and prevention the exception but in a manner that does not infringe on the right to personal privacy or pose a risk to national security The talk about the availability of information could harm national security of Egypt or the exposure of relations with other countries at risk under the banner of freedom is not acceptable so this law sought to bring about the desired balance between the considerations of freedom as a fundamental human rights and privacy considerations and national security 4 - Developing Relevant Legislation Around the world there are about 85 countries with legislation in this field and two main approaches The European approach is based on the formation of specialized entities to uphold the law and to review complaints and disputes while the American approach favors the settling of disputes by the judiciary The Laws and Regulations Committee favoring the adoption of the European approach formed the Supreme Council for Data and Information to proceed with the drafting of the Freedom of Information Law This law covers regulation of access to data and information the measures to be taken when access is withdrawn to information that should be readily available or if this information is manipulated protection of information with the potential to affect national and public security and protection of personal information and criminalization of its use for purposes other than that for which it was provided The law prohibits disclosure of data and information that may result in harming the interests of the country betrayal of trust direst damage to the economic interests of others endangering relations with a foreign country or a regional or international organization or facilitating crime or obstructing its discovery It also protects against failure to disclose information that should be in the public sphere intentional destruction of data and information records and registries disclosure of falsified incorrect or deficient data and information and disclosure of private information belonging to others The Supreme Council for Data and Information is mandated to regulate the disclosure circulation and correction of data and information This 34 35 council is granted immunity similar to that of judicial authorities and its decisions are binding unless superseded by a decision from the Administrative Court The duties of the council include establishing the necessary security classifications for data and information monitoring provision of data and information promoting a culture of disclosure of information and cooperating with national regional and international authorities concerned with freedom of information The council includes seven experienced full-time members chosen by the Shoura Council from nominations provided by the prime minister the first deputy of the head of the Cassation Court the first deputy of the head of the State Council and one representative from each of the Ministry of Defense the Ministry of Interior and the General Intelligence Agency These full-time members cannot be employees of the state’s administrative system and are prohibited from engaging in politics Outcome A comprehensive law was drafted in seven chapters containing 50 articles It represents the biggest response possible to the requirements of civil society taking into consideration national security dimensions and corresponding with the most recent legislation of its kind in the world 4 3 Cybersecurity Draft Law The three main axes of the Cybersecurity Draft Law relate to Protecting cyberspace and its contents from any external violation Agencies’ obligations towards protecting their information space and the data and information included therein particularly personal information Creating a national authority responsible for monitoring all cybersecurity activities and issuing licenses to operate within this domain The law defines the obligations of those controlling data and information and establishes rules to ensure they secure their information space as well as the data systems programs and networks contained therein It also establishes a system to manage the operation of information resources and means of securing information operation sites and accessing information and networks Additionally the law aims to combat crime related to information systems and networks in order to help maintain national security preserve the rights of legitimate users of computers and information networks and protect the public interest The draft law includes definitions of various terms contained therein including both tools of operation and forms of criminal activity such as piracy hacking malware and infiltration The law establishes the National Authority for Information Security whose authorities and powers include establishing an information security strategy promoting a culture of information security and registration and licensing of information security service providers Also define obligations on the controller of information and to develop a system to manage the operation of IT resources and how to secure sites and how to access information and networks also singled out a special chapter for experts and stressed may not engage in any act of experience in the field of information security only after enrollment in the register national experts at the national authority for information security The law stiffens penalties for those committing information crimes with imprisonment for not less than six months and or a fine of between LE 20 000 and LE 50 000 It also doubles the minimum and maximum penalties in certain situations such as for crimes committed with intent to damage the public interest or an individual public authority or the creation duplication or possession with the aim of distribution publication or sale of materials violating public decency particularly if they involve children It also provides for imprisonment and fining in case of re-offense In preparing and formulating the draft law the Laws and Regulations Committee relied on various reference materials These included International Telecommunication Union ITU recommendations regarding cybersecurity relevant Indian law the Legislation Management Draft Law of the Ministry of Justice the Decision Support Center Draft Law the Convention on Cybercrime Budapest Agreement of the Council of Europe and “Cybercrime ” by information security expert Ahmed El-Sobky Outcome A comprehensive law was drafted containing over 70 articles It represents the biggest response possible to the requirements of civil society taking into consideration the national security dimension and corresponding with the most recent legislation of its kind in the world 4 4 E-Commerce Draft Law The Laws and Regulations Committee will during the coming period work on the preparation and drafting of the E-Commerce Draft Law 4 5 E-Signature Draft Law The Laws and Regulations Committee will during the coming period work on the preparation and drafting of amendments to E-Signature Law No 15 of 2004 5 - General and Targeted Strategic Policies In light of the rapid and ongoing growth of the ICT sector developing policies and regulations related to modern technologies is a strategic national priority The importance of determining and adopting the right policies stems from the need to establish the foundations mechanisms and procedures through which strategies can be successfully implemented with close attention to protecting the interests of individuals and society and identifying users’ duties and responsibilities The policies adopted in previous strategic plans were successful in ensuring the ICT sector’s ability to meet increasing demand From October 2010 to October 2011 the number of internet users increased by 20 36% from 23 06 million to 27 75 million while the number of mobile internet subscribers grew by 15 7% MCIT therefore established various work programs to develop and determine policies in light of strategic planning aims research and analytical studies These programs aim at Drafting and updating policies and guiding principles concerning ICT use in local development Contributing to the development of legislative and regulatory frameworks related to the ICT sector Supporting the development of strategies to increase the spread and use of ICTs and maximize their benefit to users and society Monitoring developments in technology 36 37 5 - General and Targeted Strategic Policies Table 5 1 Work Programs to Develop ICT Sector Strategies and Policies Main Program Executive Programs Aims Following up on the latest developments in general and targeted policies on the regional and international levels Ensuring Egypt’s effective participation in decision making forums and work groups concerned with policy standards Table 5 1 Work Programs to Develop ICT Sector Strategies and Policies and recommendations in the ICT field on the regional and ICT and Postal Sector international levels Policy Development Program Developing existing ICT and postal sector policies and practices at the national level through analysis of relevant international experience Monitoring developments in the ICT environment to ensure ICT general policy and national strategy conform to the needs of the sector And to deploy these policies Policy Research and and introduce them to all levels locally Strategic Planning Determining areas for ICT research and studies in Development cooperation with concerned entities particularly techno- Program social research and comparative studies indicating political Analytical Studies and Research Program and social trends and their relation to ICT The output will be of use to decision makers and provide reliable material on Egypt and its ICT sector for international studies It will also facilitate monitoring of the progress of the sector in the field of sustainable development Determining and analyzing ICT sector challenges Determining future strategic goals for the ICT sector in Strategic Planning cooperation with concerned departments Program Establishing a mechanism to monitor and evaluate the work program and preparing periodic progress reports Drafting relevant sub-strategies 38 39 The National ICT Strategy for 2012-2017 was formulated with special attention to the following considerations Drafting policies with the greatest flexibility to respond to the increasing demand for communications services through continuous development of ICT infrastructure This can be facilitated by market studies determining the priority needs of consumers and the business sector and at the same time be aware of the challenges faced by the consuming sectors for this kind of service Drafting the most comprehensive policies possible enabling Egypt to excel in using ICTs for development This can be achieved by providing ICT infrastructure in marginalized areas encouraging inter-company use of ICTs increasing ICT access for Arabic speakers and providing support for SMEs which can play an important role in ICT service exports and the production of Arabic digital content Drafting policies that have quantifiable objectives and whose progress is easy to monitor MCIT will review the policies of the strategy and make modifications as and when required in accordance with government policies and priorities in response to relevant developments in the ICT field The policies contained in the strategy are divided into two types as follows General Policies These policies apply to all projects and programs for the ICT sector due to their importance both to Egypt and the international community They relate to issues that have a clear and direct impact on the success and effectiveness of ICT sector activities These policies cover Digital identity management Green ICT Empowerment of people with disabilities Access to information Mobile applications for development Targeted Policies These policies apply to a limited number of programs in certain fields They relate to areas of particular importance at the current time that will also help boost future development of the ICT sector These policies cover Arabic digital content Cloud computing e-Commerce Manufacturing of tablet computers Open-source software 6 - Strategic Pillars and Executive Work Programs The National ICT Strategy for 2012-2017 comprises seven main work pillars that represent the executive tracks for programs and projects related to the ICT sector in the next five years These pillars reflect the objectives of the strategic plan with each pillar aiming to achieve one or more objectives The pillars are the Telecom and postal services infrastructure Government ICT infrastructure and digital services national capacity building digital citizenship IT industry development ICT innovation and entrepreneurship and international cooperation 6 1 Telecommunications and Postal Service Infrastructure In light of the global communications revolution and in support of Egypt’s democratic transition MCIT and the ICT sector will proceed in developing the national ICT infrastructure to serve the growing needs of government business and individuals International experience shows that advanced ICT infrastructure is a major driver of economic activity across all sectors This pillar is concerned with implementation of the National Broadband Strategy through the National Initiative for Broadband modernization of the postal network and diversification of postal services and Cybersecurity and safety The primary strategic objectives of this pillar are Implementation of the National Broadband Strategy Network coverage for fixed high-speed internet to reach 75% of Egyptian households at 2 Mbps by 2015 Availability of 3G services for 98% of the population by 2015 4 5 million households subscribing to highspeed internet by 2015 equivalent to 22% of the Egyptian families in 2015 8 million subscribers to mobile high-speed internet by 2015 equivalent to 10% of the population 50% of public service authorities connected to the internet at 25 Mbps by 2015 50% of third-level Egyptian administrative localities served by at least one public internet access point at 25 Mbps 40 41 6 - Strategic Pillars and Executive Work Programs Table 6 1 Telecom and Postal Service Infrastructure – Primary Programs Main Programs Cybersecurity Improving postal processes and raising the efficiency of the postal network so the sector can continue to fulfill market and customer needs while boosting economic growth Developing an appropriate legislative framework for cybersecurity with the participation of the private sector and civil society and guided by relevant international expertise experience and initiatives Encouraging innovation greater use of communications technologies in the postal sector in order to simplify operations reduce cost and facilitate the introduction of more services Developing an appropriate regulatory framework for cybersecurity drawing on international experience to establish a national cybersecurity system and computer emergency response teams Supporting sustainable development and efficiency in the postal sector Utilizing the national postal services network for delivery of e-government e-health e-education and other services Researching the private funding options available for modernizing and diversifying postal products and services in addition to the support provided by the state Raising competitiveness in the local market Supporting the growth of postal markets and services through international alliances Establishing the infrastructure necessary to ensure confidence in electronic transactions and protect digital identity such as public key infrastructure and credit bureaus with the participation of the private sector Developing and implementing programs to build the necessary human capacity for activation of an e-services system across all sectors in cooperation with the private sector universities and NGOs Cooperating with other countries and relevant international organizations in the fields of cybersecurity and e-service provision Raising public awareness of the benefits of electronic services for individuals businesses and institutions and the importance of cybersecurity Table 6 1 Telecom and Postal Service Infrastructure – Primary Programs Development of the postal sector Description Postal Network Development Program Developing the postal network through the use of ICTs to automate operations establish electronic networks and information systems and improve logistics Environmental Protection and Sustainable Growth Program Assessing the impact of postal service provision on the environment Postal Products and Services Development Program Providing new services that increase revenue and serve customer needs Developing and automating service provision particularly for social and financial services to ensure the financial sustainability of Egypt Post Establishing postal infrastructure that supports poverty reduction programs Postal Sector Stakeholders Cooperation Program Developing dialogue between the Egyptian National Post Organization private postal companies and the Independent Union of Postal Workers to raise understanding of the needs of sector employees and customers through a project to develop the postal sector and study the establishment of regional communication centers in Egypt for express mail companies International Alliances Enhancement Program Enhancing Egypt’s participation in international dialogue and activities related to the postal sector allowing Egypt to present the views of developing countries The National Broadband Initiative Expanding the coverage of high-speed internet infrastructure particularly in marginalized regions and increasing use of and subscription to highspeed internet services thereby promoting sustainable growth for the Egyptian internet market Provide integrated information map for highspeed Internet that includes all geographical points of the high-speed Internet access the network’s coverage Egyptian National Post Organization Development Program The National Broadband Initiative Cybersecurity Program 42 43 Executive Programs Cybersecurity Program Establishing infrastructure that ensures confidence in electronic transactions and digital identity protection Implementing programs to build human capacity for activation of an e-services system covering all sectors Cooperating with other countries and relevant international organizations in the fields of cybersecurity and e-service provision 6 - Strategic Pillars and Executive Work Programs 6 2 Government ICT Infrastructure and Digital Services Table 6 2 Government ICT Infrastructure and Digital Services – Primary Programs This pillar aims at developing the performance of government entities and raising the quality and efficiency of the e- services they provide to the public Development and maintenance of the IT infrastructure for government Providing the main technological infrastructure for government ministries and authorities such as PCs data centers local area networks and secure connection lines Providing the main information infrastructure such as licenses software and applications for all units of the state's administrative system Improvement of the work environment and support for decision making Developing information systems and databases Providing access to public services in all governorates Supporting senior management in decision making Finding solutions to issues of concern to the community Implementing a set of programs addressing national priorities in cooperation and coordination with concerned parties from strategic sectors such as education healthcare finance transport internal trade energy and petroleum 44 45 Aims Developing healthcare services to be provided by the government nationwide Table 6 2 Government ICT Infrastructure and Digital Services – Primary Programs The primary strategic objectives of this pillar are Executive Programs Raising IT awareness among employees of relevant agencies nationwide through basic Healthcare Services Development Program computer training and ensuring the availability in all areas of the country of staff trained to manage advanced IT systems Establishing databases on healthcare facilities and those using them Drawing a health map of the country to support scientific research and decision-making in the healthcare sector Developing education services to be provided by the government in various governorates Education Services Raising IT awareness among employees of relevant agencies through basic computer Development Program training and ensuring the availability in areas covered by the program of staff trained to manage advanced IT systems Supporting the scientific and educational structure of Egyptian universities and the transfer of academic expertise in the field of education and scientific projects to universities Higher Education System Development Program Encouraging cooperation between universities in Egypt and around the world in higher education and scientific research through joint projects Increasing the number of universities so as to have a university in each governorate Raising the entry level for faculty staff Promoting a culture of respect for human rights in university education and supporting democratic practices within the university community Agricultural Services Development Program Developing agricultural services to be provided by the government in various governorates Raising IT awareness among employees of relevant agencies through basic computer training and ensuring the availability in areas covered by the program of staff trained to manage advanced IT systems Raising the quality of agricultural registration services through the use of geographic information systems GIS Increasing IT awareness with a view to raising service efficiency in the country 6 - Strategic Pillars and Executive Work Programs Aims Commercial Sector Table 6 2 Government ICT Infrastructure and Digital Services – Primary Programs Development Program Financial Sector Development Program Government Administrative Operations Development Program Supporting the efficient management of governmental and private trade activities thereby helping to increase investment Promoting a culture of transparency in Egyptian chambers of commerce and developing the relationship between chambers of commerce and merchants Improving the services provided by Egyptian chambers of commerce to their members and employees Promoting cooperation between chambers of commerce in Egypt and abroad Developing the capacity of staff at Egyptian chambers of commerce and the Federation of Egyptian Chambers of Commerce Creating an empowering legislative and regulatory environment to facilitate the growth of e-commerce on the business-to-business B2B business-to-government B2G and business-to-consumer B2C levels both nationally and internationally Maintaining a legal and regulatory framework that promotes development of the logistics infrastructure necessary to support growth in e-commerce on the national regional and international levels Preparing the human resources necessary to boost e-commerce through the development of relevant applications particularly payment and clearing systems Raising productivity and efficiency in ministries and government authorities through the use of ICTs including cloud computing technologies and providing employees with relevant training Developing services provided by the Ministry of Justice and affiliated entities including the Public Prosecution Office and the Real Estate Registry and Authentication Office Improving the technology infrastructure of the Ministry of Justice and affiliated entities by developing work systems and modernizing document storage and retrieval methods Legislative Services Raising IT awareness among employees of relevant entities through basic computer training Development Program and ensuring the availability at these entities of staff trained to manage advanced IT systems Establishing channels of communication between citizens and various entities affiliated to the Ministry of Justice to facilitate the receival of and response to complaints and the monitoring of workflow 46 47 Executive Programs Housing Sector Development Program Table 6 2 Government ICT Infrastructure and Digital Services – Primary Programs Executive Programs People’s Assembly and Shoura Council Operations Development Program Transport System Development Program National Security System Development Program Tourism System Development Program Infrastructure Development for Marginalized Regions Program Aims Creating an integrated system using IT to ensure the efficient performance of new city authorities through mechanisms allowing for accurate real-time monitoring of performance and the compilation of up-to-date reports and statistics on land and land allocations Improving the technology infrastructure of city authorities by developing internal networks linked to the New Urban Communities Authority that support the e-marketing of land and real estate to investors Promoting transparency in the activities of the People’s Assembly and the Shoura Council Reducing costs related to the activities of the People’s Assembly and the Shoura Council Improving means of communication with members of the People’s Assembly and the Shoura Council Developing parliamentary work systems Supporting regular provision of news from the People’s Assembly and the Shoura Council as well as documentation of their activities Improving technology services in the transport sector Promoting trade movement in Egyptian ports and boosting Egypt’s role as a regional commercial hub Formulating frameworks for the development of ports in coordination with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Investment Guaranteeing security for citizens in all fields Maintaining public order security and morality Protecting people’s lives property and wealth particularly through crime prevention and control Boosting incoming tourism which is an important source of hard currency and national income Improving technology services in the tourism sector to increase satisfaction and interest in Egypt as a tourist destination Raising the profile of marginalized areas with a view to encouraging their development and reducing unemployment while at the same time increasing Egypt’s digital readiness supporting the economy and encouraging mobile service providers to expand their 3G networks in areas not served by land networks 6 - Strategic Pillars and Executive Work Programs 6 3 Human Capacity Building Table 6 3 Human Capacity Building – Primary Programs The primary strategic objectives of this axis are Developing the capacity of human resources to support the national economy in collaboration with stakeholders in various sectors including education and healthcare Creating job opportunities for graduates and raising the value of knowledge and creativity Promoting specialization and the acquisition of specialist skills in the various fields of ICT through internationally accredited programs Equipping future generations with the ability to apply ICTs in all sectors to boost national development productivity and competitiveness Executive Programs Education Development Program for Egyptian Universities EDUEgypt Table 6 3 Human Capacity Building – Primary Programs Through this pillar the ICT sector and MCIT seek to foster digital citizenship by empowering members of society especially youth through ownership of the tools and skills needed to develop and live in a knowledge-based society This axis includes various training programs implemented by MCIT affiliated entities and training companies as well as the Technology Homes program which aims to equip people for a knowledge-based society Bridging the gap between student skills and the competencies required by the job market particularly in the field of outsourcing Equipping young people across the country to become IT trainers responsible for promoting Training of IT Trainers Program IT skills and human development and technically supervising training centers to raise the efficiency of management systems to International Quality Certificate level Enhancing IT trainers’ technical and personal skills knowledge and professionalism Establishing centers of excellence to promote technology innovation and develop a ICT Centers of Excellence Program knowledge-based society Establishing a concept for centers of excellence in accordance with global trends through the incorporation and integration of training scientific research and innovation in these centers Implementation of an integrated plan by the Institute of Information Technology supporting Outsourcing and IT Services partnerships between regional institutions to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in Training Program IT and to facilitate the transfer of Egyptian experience knowledge and skills in human resource development in the IT field in the Arab region Regional Cooperation Program for Africa 48 49 Aims Implementation of an Information Technology Institute program promoting IT use in health and educational research and outsourcing through the provision of opportunities in education and scientific research for individuals and institutions across Africa 6 - Strategic Pillars and Executive Work Programs 6 4 Digital Citizenship Table 6 4 Digital Citizenship – Primary Programs Supporting online protection for children while respecting their creativity and studying the provision of online family protection mechanisms that respect human rights and freedom of expression Encouraging internet and mobile service providers to run public awareness campaigns and provide protection mechanisms 50 51 smargorP evitucexE Executive Programs Digital Identity Management Program Table 6 4 Digital Citizenship – Primary Programs MCIT seeks to promote the principles of digital Internet safety citizenship in Egypt and to define the rights and Developing content related to internet safety responsibilities of citizens in cyberspace This axis is in line with the latest developments in the concerned with establishing and affirming the right field paying particular attention to policies and of all citizens to use ICTs without discrimination with programs related to children particular focus on the inclusion of marginalized Adopting IT governance concepts as a and vulnerable groups people with disabilities and mechanism to protect privacy and information children security The primary strategic objectives of this axis are Developing internet safety measures in line Integrating people with disabilities in the with developments in ICT knowledge-based society Increasing the availability of protection systems Empowering women particularly sole or primary for use with the internet and mobile phones earners through IT skills Drafting legislation and amending current laws Making information and data available to all in a related to violation of privacy and information transparent manner security on the internet as appropriate Promoting acquisition of digital skills in marginalized Activating the role of the state in legal control and remote areas over illegal internet cafes and connections Supporting civil society capabilities through use of Carrying out research into online family ICTs protection Enabling citizens in general and the elderly in Strengthening international cooperation to particular to access digital services promote internet safety in Egypt Protecting the identity and privacy of individuals Promoting Arab cooperation and experience on the internet thereby promoting use of digital exchange in the field of online safety services and facilities particularly for youth Aims Developing infrastructure technologies and policies to define manage and coordinate the ownership use and protection of personal information Creating a sound framework for digital identity management supporting electronic provision of public services efficient management of state resources and government transparency Technology Homes Program Boosting levels of IT knowledge and skills nationwide through training programs including for people with disabilities and also providing access to e-government services and services for families women and children ICTs for Community Integration Empowering rural and marginalized communities through development projects and raising awareness of the benefits of ICTs in cooperation with civil society organizations Promoting development in rural and marginalized areas through application of technology solutions to establish an integrated sustainable development model Empowering women through illiteracy eradication programs Improving services in education healthcare and in support of small businesses through use of ICTs Program ICTs for People with Disabilities Initiative ICTs for Civil Society Program Postal Service Access Enhancement Program Internet Safety Program Improving quality of life and social integration for people with disabilities through use of ICTs Promoting and supporting a productive and interactive disabled community Raising the capacity of organizations working with people with disabilities Raising awareness of the potential of ICTs to support people with disabilities Raising the capacity of civil society organizations working in development including NGOs and IT Clubs and empowering target groups in particular young people and women by building capacity through use of ICTs Empowering target groups to play a greater role in society through the adoption of a rights-based approach to development incorporating social entrepreneurship networking and knowledge sharing Using ICTs to improve and expand postal services including mobile services to facilitate communication and trade thereby promoting economic and social development Preparing and implementing a number of projects promoting the protection education and empowerment of families on the internet with special focus on the protection and empowerment of children through the growing number of protection systems available for internet and mobile use 6 - Strategic Pillars and Executive Work Programs 6 5 ICT Industry Development Table 6 5 ICT Industry Development – Primary Programs The primary strategic objectives of this axis are Increasing annual revenues from outsourcing exports from $1 3 billion to $2 5 billion and from intellectual property to $1 billion Attracting more foreign investment through marketing and promotion of Egyptian ICT activities and exports participation in regional and international exhibitions and organization of trade missions Increasing the number of outsourcing professionals with the aim of creating 75 000 direct job opportunities and 220 000 indirect job opportunities As well as contributing by 80% of the training cost of Egyptian university graduates on Soft Skills programs Establishing technology parks in various governorates especially those where the key elements of industry are available Raising the ability of Egyptian companies to develop the IT industry through the implementation of capacity-building programs and the provision of necessary infrastructure 52 53 Support of MSMEs Raising the performance and competitiveness of MSMEs by helping them identify new marketing and production opportunities and supporting MSMEs outside of Egypt’s main cities with the aim of creating job opportunities in these communities Expanding the range of training programs available to Egyptian companies with the aim of raising competitiveness in software and IT services improving management and marketing practices and promoting adherence to internationally recognized quality standards Promoting the use of global consultancy firms by Egyptian companies seeking to enter foreign markets Developing and supporting MSMEs working in the fields of software value-added services and internet economy making use of Egypt’s technical experience in these fields Main Programs Outsourcing Industry Table 6 5 ICT Industry Development – Primary Programs MCIT seeks to boost Egypt’s global ICT competitiveness by developing the outsourcing services industry raising IT service exports and attracting foreign investment thereby promoting sector growth and creating new job opportunities Development Program Executive Programs IT Export Promotion Program Technology Zone Development Program ICT Industry Capacity Building Program Aims A group of nine projects designed to increase Egyptian ICT exports by Promoting the ICT exports of Egyptian companies Enhancing call center services Promoting foreign direct investment Supporting Egyptian participation in international exhibitions Supporting the participation of Individual companies in exhibitions and events Using foreign consultancy firms to assist in the execution of the strategy up to 2020 Branding Egypt Establishing a photo library for ITIDA in cooperation with Smart Villages Company Subsidizing business trips for ICT companies Creating a supportive environment for the development of the national ICT industry and Egypt’s international reputation in ICT services through a public-private partnership Raising ICT industry capacity by developing the skills of university students and those employed in the industry and creating a favorable climate for investment Providing training consultation and evaluation to achieve international quality standards Developing a world-class ICT industry that drives national economic growth ICT Company Development Program ICTs for MSMEs Program Supporting MSME development and capacity building through the use of ICT tools and applications and the creation of an environment conducive to their growth 6 - Strategic Pillars and Executive Work Programs 6 6 ICT Innovation and Entrepreneurship Table 6 6 ICT Innovation and Entrepreneurship – Primary Programs The primary strategic objectives of this axis are Positioning Egypt as a regional innovation hub Accelerating development and economic growth in Egypt through development of the ICT sector with emphasis on creativity Supporting industry in the creation of highlevel job opportunities for professionals and graduates in various specialized fields of ICT Attracting foreign investment to boost innovation and entrepreneurship in the ICT sector Establishment of companies able to innovate in the field of information and communication technology Developing the ICT sector by engaging stakeholders in the introduction funding and support of innovative ideas Creating an environment that encourages creativity and entrepreneurism Promoting creativity and innovation in ICT to address development challenges 54 55 Executive Programs Table 6 6 ICT Innovation and Entrepreneurship – Primary Programs MCIT seeks to promote research and development innovation and entrepreneurship in the field of ICT in order to drive sector growth support sustainable national development and set Egypt on course to become a regional innovation hub by 2020 This will be achieved through a number of programs the most important of which cover establishment of ICT centers of excellence in universities and local and international ICT companies and provision of financial and marketing support for innovative entrepreneurs Aims Equipping universities with laboratories to foster an environment supportive of innovation to the benefit of both individuals and companies Encouraging international companies to establish research and development centers in Egypt ICT Centers of Excellence Program Promoting joint research projects between Egyptian ICT companies and ICT centers of excellence to facilitate the development of innovative products and services Encouraging the establishment of new companies and the development of solutions serving vital sectors of the economy such as agriculture education and tourism through competitions run by ICT centers of excellence Promoting new technologies and helping companies create innovative solutions and services through Technology Days organized by ICT centers of excellence Supporting the development of innovative ideas whose creators qualify for sponsorship Entrepreneurship Support Program including the winning of competitions by providing them space tools use of laboratories and access to services shared with incubator companies as well as expertise relating to financing marketing and approaching investors Organizing periodic workshops providing training for incubator and emerging companies Establishing a national network of e-learning centers by upgrading Technology Homes to e-Learning Program function as community service centers offering e-learning services promoting community development and raising the skill levels of young people 6 - Strategic Pillars and Executive Work Programs 6 7 International Cooperation Table 6 7 International Cooperation – Primary Programs The primary strategic objectives of this axis are Identifying opportunities for cooperation with other countries and participation in ICT-related decision-making forums of UN bodies and other regional and international organizations to present the views and protect the interests of Egypt and the region Attracting foreign investment to increase ICT sector growth and create job opportunities for youth Strengthening Egypt’s role in the Arab and African regions through the implementation of joint ventures Maximizing use of ICTs to improve the level and quality of public services and promote a knowledge-based society Developing ICT policies in line with international trends local needs and related research and studies Expanding the scope of Egypt’s partnerships with other countries to help consolidate relations and to facilitate access to international expertise promoting ICT sector growth Raising Egypt’s global competitiveness in ICT Enhancing ICT cooperation between Egypt and the international community to support the growth and development of the ICT sector 56 57 Main Programs Executive Programs Aims Bilateral Cooperation Table 6 7 International Cooperation – Primary Programs MCIT seeks to enhance cooperation in the field of ICT with other countries and international organizations– on the bilateral regional and international levels– including through exchange of expertise and experience and joint ventures promoting growth and development Program Expanding Egypt’s cooperation with other countries and international organizations – on the bilateral Cooperation with International Bilateral regional and Organizations Program promoting national development Strengthening cooperation with the countries of Africa through the Back to Africa initiative which includes the international cooperation programs regional and international levels – with the aim of Nile ICT Corridor Initiative targeting capacity building Regional Cooperation and development in the Nile Basin region a project to Program boost Egypt’s bilateral relations with the countries of Africa and support of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development NEPAD Strategic Development Partners Program 7 - Targeted Strategic Initiatives The targeted initiatives of the National ICT Strategy for 2012-2017 aim to enhance Egypt’s global position in the field of ICT globally and to increase the contribution of the sector to the GDP There is a general agreement among the ICT community that the targeted initiatives identified below have a priority in implementation and address specific challenges and needs that are high on the national agenda The initiatives will also play an important role in empowering the Egyptian society and in contributing to the sustainable development goals by offering higher quality series at lower cost to the Egyptian citizen The targeted strategic initiatives include Digital Identity Management Initiative Arabic Digital Content Initiative Educational Reform Initiative using ICTs Cloud Computing and the Tablet Computer Back to Africa Initiative ICT for Empowering People with Disabilities Initiative PWDs Green ICT Initiative In addition the Broadband Initiative was launched in September 2011 and is considered a key milestone in the ICT sector plan The initiative aims at promoting the high-speed Internet industry in Egypt with its three elements networks services and users establishing the leading position of Egypt in the region in this field in light of the changes experienced by the country and the massive demand on 58 59 the internet speed and the quality of services provided in addition to the increased desire of users for accessing the visual content news and multimedia services The national plan of the Broadband Initiative eMisr was launched and comprises two phases The objectives of the initiative are summarized as follows Egypt to reach a leading position in the digital communication field Stimulating economic growth nationwide and enhancing social cohesion Increasing job opportunities Coordinating with other Egyptian government sectors and improving the standard of living and the quality of life for all citizens Bridging the digital gap in Egypt These objectives were identified for their relevance to the current priorities of Egypt and the major world economies Egypt’s previous national ICT strategies supported the establishment of solid telecommunications infrastructure development of a vibrant ICT sector growth in access to and use of ICTs empowerment and capacity building Looking forward the current strategy while building on and developing these efforts also aims to unlock the latent potential of ICTs to promote and support advancement not only for the sector but for the wider economy and society as a whole 7 - Targeted Strategic Initiatives 7 1 Digital Identity Management Initiative Digital identity management has become of great importance in the internet economy In the mid-nineties the ability to access information via internet was considered a revolutionary transition Very quickly the internet changed from a one side posting tool to a two way platform providing personal services e-commerce e-government services and other various and different interactive such as e-health e-education and social networks Increasingly providing and spreading services online in daily life has radically changed our economies and societies making the provision of these services a must for building the internet economy On the other hand the Egyptian government has been increasingly concerned with enhancing resources encouraging investments rationalizing expenditures and distributing the basic resources in an equitable and fair manner ICT networks play a basic role in this context since communication networks and the internet are part of the country’s economic infrastructure especially in banking services e-commerce trading and financing system Communication networks and IT also play on the political economic and social levels a major role affecting citizens’ daily life through different applications such as e-government e-voting education and health services etc… Hence a pressing need appeared for developing a national project for managing the digital identity based on a clear and integrated strategy Indeed the management of the digital 60 61 identity with its various levels is considered one of the most important processes for securing and organizing transactions electronically This initiative involves developing the infrastructure technologies and policies required to create identify manage and coordinate the ownership use and protection of personal information including a framework to define digital identity data for government information systems and individuals and entities executing transactions via the internet Description Digital identity management at its different levels is considered one of the most important operations for regulating and securing cyberspace transactions Digital identity consists of all credentials and attributes related to an individual on the internet such as the computer IP address the email address passwords user name or nickname used in chatting rooms and forums electronic account on websites that require a registered account for participation and activities It also includes bank account numbers authorizing the person to deal with his her bank account electronically through the bank’s website on the Internet transfer of funds services and billing It also includes e- commerce where users can purchase via the internet using credit cards voting health information and data All these are considered examples of electronic identity whose importance has increased with the penetration and expansion of internet access Digital identity management for facilities banking sector individuals and private sector is considered one of the most important mechanisms required for regulating transactions rationalizing consumption and increasing the efficiency of availing services which require careful coordination at the national level The primary objectives of this initiative are Applying the highest level of security in the collection use and storage of documents containing personal data ensuring that unnecessary documents are removed from storage in an appropriate manner and that information retrieval is fast and efficient Providing citizens with electronic cards containing accurate personal and biometric information including electronic signature to facilitate and secure transactions with government authorities Increasing the ease and speed of checking user data to raise performance in the provision of government services Improving the quality of services provided to citizens through shared use of digital identity applications and records by various institutions Improving and integrating operations systems for various government service providers to ensure efficient use of resources eliminate repetition of routine procedures and focus on raising service quality Helping organizations control and secure the flow of information with partners and customers and to cooperate with each other thereby promoting economic growth Promoting use of digital identity applications to facilitate the provision and use of local regional and international services by institutions and individuals saving time effort and money Reducing threats to data security and privacy by limiting the amount of data circulated between institutions to that which is essential Facilitating the collection of accurate statistics and the formulation of plans for all sectors of the economy Supporting all sectors of the economy through the exchange and updating of information via a central source Encouraging innovation in the market the creation of new job opportunities and increasing foreign trade Facilitating an effective response and the ability to adapt to internet threats by increasing security on the internet reducing cybercrime improving the safety of networks and systems raising overall safety levels for consumers and promoting confidence in the internet 7 - Targeted Strategic Initiatives Table 7 1 Digital Identity Management Initiative – Primary Programs Table 7 1 Digital Identity Management Initiative – Primary Programs Output 62 63 Activities 7 2 Arabic Digital Content Initiative Programs Establishment of the National Committee for Digital Identity Management Creation of an administrative and legal framework for digital identity management through amendment of current policies and laws Identification of the responsibilities of government and the private sector in digital identity management and protection Analysis of digital identity management systems and procedures in automated government systems Drafting of an executive plan for digital identity management Legal framework and policies for digital identity management Analysis of current digital identity management systems Executive plan for digital identity management National strategy for digital identity management Incorporation of Digital Identity Data in the National Identity Number Database Upgrading of the national identity number database through inclusion of biometric data to facilitate and secure citizens’ transactions with government authorities Enhanced national identity number database Linking of National Databases to the National Identity Number Database Inclusion of national identity numbers in national database entries and linking of national databases to the national identity number database facilitating verification and auditing of data Government Efficiency Enhancement Program Use of information systems to raise efficiency in the distribution of subsidized items in priority products including diesel gasoline and energy distribution Automation of the tax collection cycle covering registration collection complaints and follow-up Simplification of the tax collection process through provision of multiple payment methods including in person or via the internet Simplification of the system to determine real estate taxes through the establishment of an inventory of housing units and their tax value based on monthly and annual electricity consumption Digital Identity Management Strategy Development Program Information systems supporting subsidy provision National database integrity Information systems supporting subsidy provision Information systems that reduce government spending and allow for more efficient collection of various taxes MCIT and the ICT sector in Egypt consider the support of Arabic digital content on the internet a top priority that allows the internet to reach more Arabic-speaking communities around the world and hence preserving and promoting Arab heritage and identity for coming generations These efforts are of great importance given that Arabic online content is estimated to constitute only about 1% to 1 5% of the global totals The Arabic content industry includes hardcopy and soft copy outputs all forms of media culture service and communication products such as books musical recordings databases newspapers and magazines heritage documents multimedia software governmental documents scientific publishing radio and personal programs product catalogues business activity documents photo banks patents etc Hence it is an integrated industrial process information building industry and a structuring of its investment as per user needs MCIT works to develop the Arabic digital content industry in Egypt in cooperation with local regional and international organizations such as the Arab League ESCWA UNESCO the International Telecommunication Union in addition to stakeholders from the private sector government and civil society Description The Arabic Digital Content Initiative aims at enhancing Arabic digital content production and promoting its use in order to support human and social development facilitate Egypt’s transition to a knowledge-based society and preserve and promote Arab and Islamic heritage and identity This requires the establishment of a strong digital content industry providing content in written audio and visual formats accessible through various channels and the development and enrichment of creative Arabic digital content The initiative involves cooperation between Arab countries to integrate efforts in the development of Arabic digital content share resources experience and expertise and avoid duplication of efforts The primary objectives of this initiative are Establishing a national strategy with a clear vision and objectives to enrich and digitize Arabic content promote creativity in the Arabic digital content industry and develop indicators to monitor and evaluate progress Promoting the creation and dissemination of public sector information open government data Promoting the digitization industry and developing an easily replicable model for content creation Providing a suitable legislative and regulatory environment to protect Arabic content Promoting research and development in the field of Arabic language technology Promoting the development of tools to enrich Arabic content and the improvement of infrastructure through use of advanced technologies Promoting translation into Arabic of scientific and technological content from developed countries in order to increase access to knowledge expertise and experience 7 - Targeted Strategic Initiatives 7 2 1 Primary Aims of the Programs of Arabic Digital Content Initiative Supporting SMEs working in the content industry Implementing training and capacity-building programs to ensure the availability of human resources qualified to work in the content industry at more developed levels than mere data entry Enhancing Arab cooperation in the field of Arabic digital content through implementation of joint projects and exchange of expertise Promoting the export of Arabic digital content and related technologies that will create job opportunities Raising awareness of the importance of Arabic digital content and its development Encouraging companies to develop and market innovative technologies to protect electronic products at suitable prices Raising awareness in the business community of intellectual property rights Developing specialized courses for universities and accredited training courses to follow to prepare students for work in the digital content field 64 65 1- Documentation of Arab Heritage Program Supporting the digitization industry Promoting the digitization of Arabic heritage materials Promoting investment in the hosting of digital content in all formats Promoting use of IT to preserve and promote heritage Creating a supportive environment for small and medium start-up companies through provision of loans tax exemptions or exportrelated facilities for appropriate periods Developing digital heritage materials for use in the education process Boosting Egyptian cooperation with African countries using digital heritage materials to promote Egyptian and Arab heritage Building human capacity in the field of heritage in the Nile Basin region 2- Production and Provision of Government Content Program Facilitating the production of service-oriented government content through the provision of appropriate technology infrastructure – including computers data centers local networks and secure connection lines – software applications and licenses Establishing information systems and databases allowing citizens to access government services in all governorates Promoting a culture of e-purchasing for digital content Reusing government data in studies and research to provide feedback on government services and facilitate their improvement Providing suitable guarantees and protection to attract investment in e-publishing 3- Capacity Building for National Companies Program Opening new avenues for Arabic digital content in Egypt through partnerships with international organizations Encouraging national companies to produce and develop Arabic digital content with the aim of raising the competitiveness of national industries Supporting development of the human resources required for the digital content industry with the aim of creating job opportunities and increasing global demand for digital content animal production small and medium-size projects family development and education and training content Providing individuals groups and organizations with access to electronic publishing tools a free website creation service training materials and technical and information support Promoting a culture of knowledge management Establishing knowledge networks for development comprising websites and portals created by the community 6- Research and Development in Arabic 4- Creativity and Innovation in Arabic Digital Digital Content Program Content Program Developing relevant technology infrastructure Creating a supportive environment for Employing systems to protect Arabic digital creativity and innovation content Developing the necessary human resources Promoting the use and Arabization of openfor the production of creative and innovative source software to support the needs of content Arabic digital content users in areas including Developing specialized courses for universities search engines deep processing linguistic in order to prepare students for work in the and grammatical revision word processing digital content field machine translation and indexing systems Supporting research centers centers of excellence and companies in enhancing research and development in the field of digital content particularly for mobile devices 5- Community Enrichment of Arabic Digital Content Program Promoting the use of Arabic digital content in social and human development supporting the transition to a knowledge-based society and raising living standards by closing the digital gap Targeted areas include agriculture 7 - Targeted Strategic Initiatives Table 7 2 Arabic Digital Content Initiative – Primary Programs Output Activities Analysis of similar strategies Arabic digital content strategy on the national and regional levels Executive plan Documentation of Arab Heritage Program Determination of the efforts to be made by various ministries in the documentation of Egyptian Arab heritage Determination of the priorities of various authorities in heritage documentation Determination of priorities with regard to promoting access to digital heritage materials Setting a time plan for implementation of the program Implementation of projects by concerned parties Egyptian heritage preservation manual Executive plan of the heritage documentation program Preparation of materials to be digitized Provision of digitized content Production and Provision of Government Content Program Setting the criteria to be used in the selection of data to be made available by the government Identification of digitized and accessible government data that can be published on the internet Determination of ministries’ priorities in the digitization and publishing of data Formulation of plans for each ministry to digitize and publish data on the internet in the period 2012-2017 Implementation of digitization projects in each ministry Guide to digitized government data indicating what is availed Individual ministry plans indicating which data is to be digitized and which will be availed Publication of digitized content Capacity Building for National Companies Program Implementation of an integrated training program in interactive content development in cooperation with specialized local and international authorities Establishment of a competence center for innovation in Arabic digital content to be used by companies for training on modern technologies No of companies to receive training Competence center for innovation in Arabic digital content Creativity and Innovation in Arabic Digital Content Program Implementation of a group of initiatives to encourage SMEs to produce Arabic digital content Establishment of an incubator program for start-ups in the field of Arabic digital content Implementation of projects promoting and supporting the production of advanced digital content Cooperation between the Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center TIEC and regional and international centers working in the field of digital content No of projects and initiatives implemented No of digital content incubators Participation of national companies in specialized conferences and exhibitions Promoting the establishment of specialized portals dependent on user-generated content by NGOs and research institutions Promoting the establishment of social networks that contribute to the creation of specialized content Enhancement of the social development portals established by the Egyptian Program for IT Development to ensure their sustainability and expand the sectors they cover No of websites No of social networks No of pages and articles generated by users Promotion of scientific research in Arabic in the field of Arabic digital content technologies to cover areas including search engines deep processing linguistic and grammatical revision word processing machine translation and indexing systems No of research papers No of research projects Table 7 2 Arabic Digital Content Initiative – Primary Programs Formulation of the Executive Plan of the Arabic Digital Content Initiative Community Enrichment of Arabic Digital Content Program 66 67 Programs Establishment of the National Committee for the Preservation and Documentation of Heritage by concerned ministries Formulation of a detailed strategy for Arabic digital content Determination of the responsibilities of government and the private sector in implementing the strategy Drafting of the executive plan of the strategy Research and Development in Arabic Digital Content Program 7 3 Educational Reform Initiative based on ICTs Cloud Computing and the Tablet Computer Development of Egypt’s education system is a national priority given the importance of education to development and progress in all fields MCIT in cooperation with the Ministry of Education the Ministry of Higher Education the Ministry of Scientific Research and other stakeholders has adopted various strategies and initiatives over the years supporting education development Through publicprivate partnerships MCIT has succeeded in integrating ICTs in the education system developing the capabilities of teaching staff and students and expanding the role of educational institutions in their communities Looking forward cloud-computing technologies offer great potential in the field of education As teaching materials and resources are stored on central databases they are accessible anywhere at any time via the internet This reduces costs for educational institutions as they can access content on a pay-per-use basis rather than having to purchase various software packages and licenses and maintain equipment with sufficient processing power and memory to store and use them As this system can be accessed anywhere with an internet connection the space occupied by static computer labs can be developed for other uses Cloud computing also supports the work of scientists and researchers and promotes economic growth by reducing education expenditure and promoting local production of digital education materials cloud computing software and tablet computers The primary objectives of the Initiative are Strengthening the national commitment to building a model of educational reform that can be replicated in other Arab and African countries Promoting research and development and supporting scientific research in the field of ICT for education Establishing a culture of e-learning among public and private educational institutions and developing e-courses for use in state education Developing regulations and mechanisms covering the production and use of e-learning materials by educational institutions and determining standards for the evaluation of such materials B o o s t i n g t h e i n t e r n e t e c o n o m y and creating new job opportunities Providing Egyptian producers of digital content and applications with new opportunities to reach large numbers of learners at low cost Raising the contribution of the electronics industry in the GDP Developing the technology skills of university teaching staff and students Developing the skills of engineers and technicians for work in the electronics industry Tablet Computer to support national growth Establishing a plan for sustainable environmental protection and management of natural resources energy and e-waste 7 - Targeted Strategic Initiatives The anticipated results of the Initiative include Reduction of government spending on ICTs in education Expanding public-private enterprises and increasing resources and efficiency Developmentv of the Arabic educational content industry Development of the local electronics and computer industries Development of the local cloud-computing software industry Maximizing the use of ICTs in education and development of related computing systems and applications including data banks and mobile applications Development of business models and mechanisms promoting continued capacity building in technological and educational innovation for the production of e-learning materials Growth in use of open technologies and open-source software 7 3 1 Primary Aims of the Programs of Arabic Digital Content Initiative 1-Tablet Computer Program Increasing computer and broadband penetration and facilitating access to the internet at affordable prices with the aim of making learning available anywhere Developing policies and procedures to promote the electronics industry in Egypt Establishing an Egyptian tablet computer industry within five years Promoting the production of Egyptian Tablet Computer at competitive prices Manufacturing about 20 million tablet computers for students and the learning community Tablet Computer for Students Project Establishing a general framework for the development of the local tablet computer industry based on analyzing successful experiences in this area Empowering local companies to enter this promising industry through the development of a set of policies and strategies Building an integrated ecosystem promoting growth of the Tablet Computer industry Promoting the local Tablet Computer industry in local and regional markets Tablet Computer Applications Project Encouraging producers of software and applications to develop service-oriented architecture SOA applications and educational and recreational games for tablet computers 68 69 Building an integrated system supporting the Tablet Computer industry and related industries in marketing and exportation 2-Cloud Computing for Educational Reform Program Adaptive e-Learning Project Cloud Computing Project Building a cloud computing system serving the educational process – by drawing on relevant international experience building human capacity and developing an integrated framework for the development of industries involved in cloud computing 3-Educational Cloud Computing Systems and Applications Program Developing implementing and disseminating e-learning application systems Developing e-learning and content management systems for the internet Developing multi-track e-learning packages for different learner levels tailorable to individual needs Establishing social networks using cloud computing that enable the education community to open channels of dialogue and create a virtual community that promotes the exchange of information and enriches Arabic scientific content Supporting effective classroom management through the development of dynamic Arabic educational content appropriate tools and a supportive learning environment Providing 2G internet technology Developing and promoting the use of simulation software and applications for educational use to provide users with an enhanced learning experience Establishing student achievement profiles Developing programs and applications to raise the capacity of teaching staff and administrators Providing an e-learning program customizable to the educational level of learners promoting continuous learning based on adaptive and personalized learning techniques and which allows teaching and learning anytime and anywhere 21st Century Skills Development Project Providing a range of general services to the education community through 2G internet technologies enabling communication and networking between all involved in the education process participation-based learning and enrichment of the learning process Cloud Computing Systems Development Project Enhancing the teaching and learning process through the development of systems software and applications including simulation packages designed to develop users’ knowledge practical skills and experience Open-source Technologies Development Project Developing the open-source software industry Promoting the use of open-source technologies in the educational process which will contribute to reducing technology related spending of educational institutions and facilitate the development of software and applications targeting the needs of the local educational community Educational Institutions Automation Project Providing educational institutions with software to develop and automate processes related to management of finances inventory and procurement assets and resources libraries human resources student information etc 7 - Targeted Strategic Initiatives 4- Arabic Educational Content Development Program Preparing the necessary human resources to Promoting online Arabic content by improving work in the production of Tablet Computer protection of intellectual property rights interactive Arabic digital content and cloud enforcing legislation and stimulating creation of computing software content in Arabic rather than English Creating a competitive environment that supports the Arabic scientific content industry in Egypt Online Education Channels Project Posting series of recorded lectures and lessons as well as educational films on online education channels and encouraging the local community to contribute Community Education Portal Project Establishing a web portal promoting the generation of culturally relevant open-source online educational content by the community that can be accessed in a variety of formats Curriculum Digitization Project Developing and digitizing curriculum materials Adapting e-courses for use on tablet computers Enabling local companies to work in curriculum digitization Building human capacity in curriculum digitization 5- Human Capacity Building for ICT in the Educational Reform Program 70 71 Preparing the necessary human resources to manage and operate cloud computing activities Programs Tablet Computer Program Cloud Computing Management Skills Development Project Adopting an integrated training program to qualify work teams to manage cloud computing activities also to be available at universities Electronics Industry Human Resource Development Project Implementing a training program to enable graduates with relevant specializations to work in developing the electronics industry Establishing units specializing in a p p l i a n ce d e s i g n a n d d ev e l o p m e n t Preparing qualification programs to develop human capacity for the electronics industry Digital Content Industry Human Resource Development Project Implementing a training program to develop skills and provide qualifications for employees of local companies working in the production of digital content Implementing a training program for university students and graduates interested in working in the digital content industry Providing the educational community with the tools and software necessary to develop digital educational content Activities Implementation of a pilot project to manufacture 10 000 Tablet Computer for university students Implementation of a project to manufacture educational tablets in cooperation with the Ministry of Education Development of applications and games for Tablet Computer Output 10 000 Tablet Computer for university students The National Project Executive Plan Formulation of an executive plan in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education Standards relating to use of cloud computing in education Table 7 3 The Educational Reform Initiative – Primary Programs Building an information society that supports the Arabic scientific content industry both locally and internationally Table 7 3 The Educational Reform Initiative – Primary Programs Cloud Computing for Education Program Educational Cloud Computing Systems and Applications Program Arabic Educational Content Development Program Human Capacity Building for ICT and Cloud Computing in Education Program Setting of standards for educational cloud computing covering systems applications and protection measures Use of cloud computing technologies in education making use of the available infrastructure at Assiut University and services offered by the data centers of the Supreme Council of Universities and the Ministry of Education Implementation of the first phase of the educational cloud computing project in Assiut Implementation of the second phase of the educational cloud computing project in cooperation with the data centers of the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education Development of an interactive e-learning system Provision of 2G social networks related tools and e-mail services for students Provision of open-source educational simulation systems and software Provision of school university management systems using cloud computing technologies Loading of systems and applications on the educational cloud to be used in the pilot project to provide 10 000 university students with etablets Establishing a digital library for open-source educational content generated in partnership with the community No of courses Conversion of digital curriculum materials available at the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education to a more interactive format for posting on the educational cloud No of educational modules produced or posted on the educational cloud Involvement of national companies in the development of digital curriculum materials Qualification of human resources to manage and operate cloud computing activities Qualification of human resources to work in the electronics industry Qualification of human resources to work in the field of interactive Arabic digital content Qualification of human resources to work in the field of cloud computing software No of trainees 7 - Targeted Strategic Initiatives 7 4 Back to Africa Initiative Egypt enjoys strong historical and cultural ties with the Africa continent These ties are particularly strong with the Nile Basin countries The Egyptian government seeks to build on its long-standing relations in Africa in all fields and since the 25 January Revolution this goal has been designated a national priority In this context the Back to Africa Initiative seeks to use Egypt’s progress in the ICT sector in terms of infrastructure policies and human resources to further strengthen its ties throughout the continent on the bilateral and regional levels while promoting sustainable human and social development and establishing a strong ICT infrastructure that would contribute to bridging the digital divide in Africa The primary objectives of this initiative are Enhancing Egypt’s role in Africa Participating in ICT-related activities of various African organizations including the African Union the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa COMESA the African Telecommunications Union ATU the Pan-African Postal Union PAPU the African Network Operators Group AfNOG the African Network Information Center AfriNIC the AfriNIC Government Working Group AfGWG the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa UNECA and the African Development Bank ADB Nominating Egyptians for leading positions in African organizations working in ICT-related fields Hosting events in Egypt for African organizations working in ICT-related fields Hosting entities created by African organizations working in ICT-related fields 72 73 Proposing and implementing regional ICTrelated projects through membership of African organizations Continuing to follow up on projects resulting from cooperation between African Asian and European countries Promoting African ICT development Building human capacity in the ICT sector Promoting the creation of an environment conducive to ICT investment Exploring communication resources including spectrum usage and how best to use them Developing the regulatory and administrative structure of telecommunications regulation bodies Promoting the digitization of heritage and culture thereby encouraging future investment in these areas Promoting and developing ICT use in marginalized regions 7 4 1 Back to Africa Initiative Core Programs First Nile ICT Corridor Initiative The Nile ICT Corridor Initiative aims to promote cooperation and integration in support of development and the formation of information societies and knowledge-based economies in the Nile Basin region – which comprises Burundi Democratic Republic of the Congo Egypt Eritrea Ethiopia Kenya Rwanda South Sudan Sudan Tanzania and Uganda This involves strengthening the role of ICT in social development expanding and improving ICT infrastructure establishing a supportive legislative and regulatory environment for ICT sector growth and building the human capacity necessary for ICT integration across all sectors Within the framework of this initiative Egypt will be able to transfer experience and best practices – in areas including telecommunications regulation and the establishment of technology parks Progress in these fields and related one in the Nile Basin region is expected to open new markets for Egyptian companies The initiative includes the establishment of a high level committee on the ministerial level that will determine relevant public policies and oversee the work of the following proposed committees Nile Technological Committee for Community Development Comprising an expert in ICT applications for community and sustainable development from each member country the committee shall supervise the implementation of activities related to the development of technological skills e-learning e-content telemedicine e-government democracy and governance as well as projects related to women and children and empowerment of people with disabilities Nile Technological Committee for ICT Infrastructure and Policies Comprising an expert in the field of infrastructure and ICT policy from each member country the committee shall supervise the implementation of activities relating to ICT infrastructure connectivity and accessibility in partnership with the private sector Activities will include the establishment of national computer emergency response CERT teams human capacity building in the field of spectrum management and the development of legislative and regulatory frameworks for telecommunications Nile Technological Committee for Business Development Comprising an ICT expert from each member country the committee shall supervise the implementation of activities relating to the formation of partnerships between African institutions in areas including research promotion of entrepreneurship and the development of indicators and market studies Primary objectives Promoting cooperation with and among Nile Basin countries to help them establish information societies and knowledge-based economies Supporting integration and cooperation among the countries of the Nile Basin to facilitate the solving of common developmental challenges Establishing an ongoing dialogue with the countries of the Nile Basin on technical issues of concern Promoting a shared vision to address developmental challenges through ICTs 7 - Targeted Strategic Initiatives Second Bilateral and Regional Cooperation Programs These programs aim at strengthening Egypt’s bilateral relations with the continent boosting Egyptian investment in infrastructure projects in African countries and supporting development through the sharing of Egyptian experience and training of human resources Table 7 4 1 Nile ICT Corridor Initiative Activities Establishment of a web portal for the Nile ICT Corridor introducing citizens and officials of member countries to the project and providing a channel of communication and access to services Table 7 4 1 Nile ICT Corridor Initiative Community Development Program Establishment of Nile ICT Houses for eradication of technological illiteracy providing IT skills training e-clinics local e-government services regional distance learning center units and documentation units for human natural and cultural heritage Establishment of an e-learning center for Nile Basin countries facilitating ICT-related research and offering specialized programs in different fields of technology and diploma courses in computer use from the Information Technology Institute ITI and Egyptian universities Documentation of human natural and cultural heritage e-Government transfer of Egyptian e-government expertise to Nile Basin countries and provision of training for government employees Output No of hits for the Nile ICT Corridor web portal A geographic information system for service centers and videoconferencing e-mail and other virtual communication services Technology centers in the Nile Basin countries acting as contact center between the Technology Corridor and recipient countries Business Development Program Cultural and natural heritage documentation centers Documentation of the human natural and cultural history of the Nile Basin B- Regional Cooperation The regional center and an information center No of Nile ICT Houses Regional e-learning center Transfer of expertise models of the Creation of a knowledge partnerships in the field of technology park establishment Establishment of national computer emergency response CERT teams Development of human resources in the field of regulation and telecommunications No of trainees Contribution to the development of legislative and regulatory frameworks for telecommunications and spectrum management Support and development of ICT entrepreneurship Training programs entrepreneurial skills to Establishment of an ICT business forum for the Nile Basin region Hosting and incubation of a number of emerging companies in Nile ICT Houses By re activating Egypt’s involvement in relevant regional organizations This role enhances Egypt’s position in the continent and ensures many economic benefits The ICT sector plays an important role in regional cooperation Primary objectives Strengthening Egypt’s regional role in Africa Strengthening Egypt’s role in regional organizations Developing ICT related cooperation frameworks on the governmental level Encouraging the Egyptian private sector to invest in African markets especially at the SME level Transferring Egyptian expertise to African countries through bilateral and regional cooperation Establishing initiatives for the implementation of regional projects Developing mechanisms for tripartite cooperation between Egypt and European or Arab country ies to implement projects in Africa Table 7 4 2 Bilateral Cooperation Program develop Semi-annual ICT business forums to be held in each of the Nile Basin countries in rotation 74 75 A- Bilateral Cooperation Aiming at strengthening bilateral relations between Egypt and African countries strengthening the role of the Egyptian private sector by boosting Egyptian investments in infrastructure projects where Egyptian companies enjoy a relatively large experience and supporting development projects through human capacity building programs Smart buildings smaller Smart Village Information Infrastructure and Policy Program Egyptian African cooperation axes are divided into two pillars bilateral and regional cooperation Programs Table 7 4 2 Bilateral Cooperation Program Programs through knowledge transfer Egypt is member in a number of African regional organizations including The African Union AU - The COMESA - The African Telecommunications Union ATU and The Pan-African Postal Union PAPU Activities Infrastructure projects Cooperation with South Africa ICT policy Outsourcing and call center services Use of ICTs in development Living labs Cooperation with Mauritius Human capacity building Cooperation in the field of call centers Output Greater investment between Egypt and South Africa Increased cooperation between Egypt and South Africa in the field of ICT Transfer of experience in the field of living labs Coordination of regional and international positions No of trainees 7 - Targeted Strategic Initiatives Third NEPAD The New Partnership for Africa’s Development an African Union strategic framework for panAfrican socioeconomic development is both a vision and a policy framework for Africa aimed at addressing critical challenges facing the continent poverty development and Africa’s marginalization internationally NEPAD provides opportunities for African countries to take full control of their development agenda to work more closely together and to cooperate more effectively with international partners NEPAD manages a number of programs and projects in six thematic areas Agriculture and food security Climate change and national resource management Regional integration and infrastructure Human development gender The ICT track includes the e-Africa program created to develop policies strategies and projects at the continent’s The program aims to pursue cross-sector initiatives to entrench ICT in all sectors develop e-services and raise Africa’s digital competitiveness 76 77 MCIT is paying a special attention to people with disabilities in the 2012- 2017 sector strategy The ministry is currently working on a long-term strategy with the participation of representatives of this group that focuses on integrating people with disabilities in the Egyptian society rehabilitating and empowering them through information and communications technology in order to ensure their participation in the development process Current status assessment Economic and corporate governance Cross-cutting issues including capacity development and ICT 7 5 ICT for Empowering People with Disabilities Initiative Ensuring communication with all segments of the Egyptian society and providing ICT for development services are two of the most important objectives of the ministry In order to achieve these objectives the ministry has worked since its inception to build a strong information society However and despite all effort the needs of PWD remains a major challenge Egypt is a signatory to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2007 supporting the efforts of the United Nations to change attitudes and approaches to people with disabilities and to ensure they are able to enjoy their full rights make decisions for their lives based on their free and informed consent and function as active members of society In the same year Egypt held the First Arab Regional Forum on Sharing Experience on Best Practices in ICT Services for Persons with Disabilities The resulting Cairo Declaration on Supporting Access to Information and Communications Technology Services for Persons with Disabilities emphasized the need to develop and use ICTs as assistive tools to provide services to people with disabilities and identify the roles of government entities research centers universities civil society and the private sector in providing such services The declaration also covered legislation and regulations collection of accurate information and statistics means to increase opportunities for employment and provision of access to high-quality ICT devices and services at affordable prices Description The ICT for Empowering People with Disabilities Initiative is a long-term strategy involving the participation of people with disabilities and organizations representing their interests The Initiative focuses on integrating people with disabilities in the Egyptian society and empowering them through ICTs It aims at removing barriers and facilitating opportunities for people with disabilities – using ICTs to develop their abilities and potential – and enabling them to enjoy their rights fulfill their responsibilities and participate fully in developing their communities and society The primary objectives of this initiative are Promoting access to information and knowledge and strengthening personal interaction and communication Launching a web portal covering issues of concern to people with disabilities and ensuring provision of internet services at reduced cost with the aim of facilitating their access to information and knowledge protecting their right to freedom of expression and raising awareness about assistive devices Collaborating with relevant government agencies and local and international companies to provide computers for persons with disabilities Providing specialized software and relevant training for people with disabilities through the national network of Technology Homes Providing courses in sign language and audio programs to facilitate correct pronunciation of letters Improving the quality and accessibility of services Facilitating access to and use of the physical environment by persons with disabilities through the development of public facilities and services – including enhancement of e-government services adaptation of post offices and telephone exchanges and facilitation of access to online financial and banking services Implementing disability assistance programs such as telemedicine services and free audio book libraries Launching a hotline to serve people with disabilities with the aim of establishing a direct link with the community and collecting information in order to serve them betterHotline services will include directories of inclusive schools and centers as well as useful medical and legal information 7 - Targeted Strategic Initiatives Supporting the integration of students with disabilities in state schools and higher education institutions through the use of ICTs Developing e-learning programs and techniques to serve people with disabilities Providing training for teachers – an essential pillar in the education process for people with disabilities – in the use of ICTs to enhance integration Developing the mental abilities of people with intellectual disabilities and the sight impaired through development of nonformal education Enhancing opportunities for employment Ensuring equal employment opportunities for people with disabilities according to their academic and vocational levels Empowering people with disabilities to maximize their independence and improve their quality of life Opening the labor market to people with disabilities and raising their employability through basic IT training Providing training and work opportunities in cooperation with call centers and major ICT companies Building information infrastructure for people with disabilities Establishing a national disabilities observatory to develop and maintain databases related to persons with disabilities covering types and causes of disabilities geographic distribution qualifications and skill levels training required by people with disabilities and those involved in their teaching and training and details of the official and non-governmental entities serving and representing people with disabilities Establishing a national network of vocational rehabilitation centers for people with disabilities Raising awareness about specialized software that facilitates communication for people with disabilities Promoting research development and innovation in ICTs for people with disabilities Promoting research and development in technologies for people with disabilities giving priority to low-cost technologies available in Arabic Implementing a project in cooperation with the Ministry of Scientific Research to promote research in the field of integration of people with disabilities through ICTs Supporting international cooperation in the field of ICTs for people with disabilities Participating actively in regional and international conferences and forums concerned with ICTs for people with disabilities Preparing periodic reports on activities related to ICTs for people with disabilities 78 79 Holding an annual conference on ICTs for people with disabilities Table 7 5 ICT for Empowering People with Disabilities Initiative PWDs – Primary Programs Programs Activities Establishment of an accessible web portal covering issues of concern to people with disabilities Table 7 5 ICT for Empowering People with Disabilities Initiative PWDs – Primary Programs Promoting equal opportunities in education Information and Knowledge Access Support Program Provision of specialized software in Technology Homes and establishment of e-libraries Harmonizing information systems in accordance with global standards Provision of courses in sign language and audio programs to facilitate correct pronunciation of letters for the hearing and sight impaired Output Web portal 100 Technology Homes equipped with specialized software Development of an Egyptian information directory Development of the Unified Egyptian Sign Language Program Development of audio programs Provision of low-cost video calls for persons with hearing impairments Facilitation of access to online financial and banking services Service and Access Development Program Enhancement of e-government services Establishment of a hotline for people with disabilities Adaptation of post offices telephone exchanges and other public service outlets Provision of telemedicine services for people with disabilities Provision of low-cost video calls for people with hearing impairments through at least one mobile service provider Hotline serving people with disabilities Adaptation of 50% of post offices and telephone exchanges Provision of telemedicine services in 10 governorates Provision of free access to audio book libraries Equality in Education Program Supporting the integration of students with disabilities in state schools and higher education institutions Development of e-learning programs to serve people with disabilities Provision of the technology needs of 150 inclusive schools Training of 300 teachers Training of teachers disabilities Development of non-formal education Employability Enhancement Program Provision of job opportunities for people with disabilities through call centers Provision of jobs for 200 persons with disabilities Provision of training for employment Provision of basic IT skills training Provision of basic IT skills training for 100 000 persons with disabilities Cooperation with major ICT companies to promote employment opportunities for people with disabilities Cooperation with 50% of ICT companies to promote employment opportunities for people with disabilities 7 - Targeted Strategic Initiatives Table 7 5 ICT for Empowering People with Disabilities Initiative PWDs – Primary Programs Table 7 5 ICT for Empowering People with Disabilities Initiative PWDs – Primary Programs Programs Information Infrastructure for People with Disabilities Program Activities Establishment of a national disabilities observatory to develop and maintain databases for people with disabilities types of disabilities based on geographic distribution qualifications and skill evels and training required for them and their teachers and trainers Output National disabilities observatory and databases Establishment of a national network of vocational rehabilitation centers for people with disabilities Raising awareness of specialized software that facilitates communication for people with disabilities Research Development and Innovation in ICTs for People with Disabilities Program International Cooperation in ICTs for People with Disabilities Program Establishment of a competition to promote development of ICT applications for people with disabilities Issuance of an invitation for research proposals in the field of integration of people with disabilities through ICTs in cooperation with the Ministry of Scientific Research Representation of people with disabilities in international organizations and institutions Exc h an g e of exp erien ce t hro u gh reg ion al an d in tern at ion al co nfe re nces Holding of an annual conference on ICTs for people with disabilities 50 prizes allocated to winners of the competition to develop ICT applications for people with disabilities 10 awards for people with disabilities to attend relevant conferences and training courses Pa r t i c i p a t i o n i n f o u r r e g i o n a l i n t e r n a t i o n a l co n f e r e n ce s a n n u a l l y A n n u a l co n f e r e n ce 7 6 Green ICT Initiative In line with Egypt’s aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and play an active role in international efforts to promote sustainable development both locally and internationally programs have been adopted in a number of sectors to reduce emissions and protect the environment In this context the ICT sector has a special role to play in reducing emissions and limiting the environmental impact not only of its own activities but across all sectors thereby supporting sustainable economic and social development On a global level the sector has the potential to significantly reduce emissions in other sectors for only a low increase in its own emissions MCIT’s efforts in the field of green ICT – in cooperation with governmental and nongovernmental organizations international organizations and the private sector – include programs in the following areas of focus Sustainable management and development of the ICT sector Establishing a framework for the Green ICT Strategy for 2012-2015 Coordinating green ICT at the national level Sustainable management of e-waste Recycling of e-waste Policies and legislation Exchange of experience and knowledge Research Raising community awareness 80 81 ICT sector support of environment-friendly sustainable development in other sectors The primary objectives of this initiative are Supporting sustainable development on the national level Accelerating economic growth by encouraging investment in green ICT Setting national policies for green ICT Raising public awareness of ICTs and their relation to the environment Building human capacity in green ICT Promoting the adoption of smart and energysaving ICT solutions Promoting research in the field of green ICT Promoting use of green ICTs in all sectors Promoting sustainable management of ICT equipment from procurement to recycling Formulating policies that promote reuse and recycling of ICT equipment 7 - Targeted Strategic Initiatives 7 6 1 Primary Programs of the Green ICT Primary Objectives Initiative Raising public awareness of the importance First ICT Sector Sustainable Management and of sustainable e-waste management Development Program Building human capacity in sustainable ICT This program aims to reduce the negative procurement and e-waste management environmental impact of ICTs resulting from Supporting sustainable environment-friendly energy consumption and e-waste through two development of the ICT sector main tracks sustainable ICT procurement and Accelerating economic growth by promoting sustainable e-waste management investment in green ICT Second ICTs for Sustainable Development Across all Sectors Program This program aims at applying green ICT solutions to limit greenhouse gas emissions produced by other sectors and supporting environment-friendly sustainable economic development particularly in the energy transport and housing sectors Primary objectives Supporting environment-friendly sustainable national development Contributing to efforts to reduce the causes and minimize the impact of climate change Creating new industries and job opportunities in the field of e-waste recycling Table 7 6 1 ICT Sector Sustainable Management and Development Program 82 83 Activities Organization of workshops seminars conferences etc on green ICT and e-waste management Green ICT and e-Waste Management Awareness Program Preparation of printed materials promoting green ICT and e-waste management Establishment of a web portal about green ICT Promotion of collective efforts to protect the environment via online social networks Introduction of regulations concerning green ICT procurement e-Waste Management Policy and Legislation Development Program Human Capacity Building in Sustainable ICT Procurement and e-Waste Management Program Sustainable e-Waste Management Investment Promotion Program Amendment of legislation to support sustainable e-waste management in cooperation with the Ministry of Trade and Industry Establishment of an accreditation system for companies working in the field of recycling in cooperation with the Ministry of Trade and Industry Preparation of training courses and diploma programs in sustainable ICT procurement and e-waste management Assessment of current e-waste management practices in Egypt Preparation of a proposal to implement an e-waste take-back system Programs Output No of workshops seminars conferences etc No of printed materials Web portal Policies Laws Accreditation system for recycling companies Training courses Diploma programs No of trainees Analysis of current e-waste management practices in Egypt Proposal for an e-waste take-back system Report on economic incentives relating to e-waste management Table 7 6 2 ICTs for Sustainable Development Across All Sectors Program Table 7 6 1 ICT Sector Sustainable Management and Development Program Programs Table 7 6 2 ICTs for Sustainable Development Across All Sectors Program Activities Output Maadi Call Center LEED Certification Program Modification of Maadi Call Center Building MB4 to meet the requirements for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design LEED certification from the US Green Building Council USGBC in coordination with the project consultant LEED certification of Maadi Call Center MCIT Lighting System Enhancement Program Installation of energy-saving lighting systems at MCIT premises in Smart Village and Mohandessin Reduced use of energy Intelligent Transport System Pilot Project Establishment of a smart road management system Improvement of transport and traffic management Reduced use of energy and resources Lower operating costs Lower operating costs Environment-friendly intelligent transport system Improved traffic flow Reduced use of energy Reduced emissions of greenhouse gases Climate Change Adaptation through ICTs Handbook Program Implementation of an international survey to identify best practices in the field of climate change adaptation using ICTs MCIT Carbon Footprint Assessment Program Review of carbon footprint measurement systems and selection of the most appropriate Preparation of a handbook on climate change adaptation through ICTs Selection of company to perform the carbon footprint assessment International survey of best practices in climate change adaptation through ICTs Handbook on the best ICT practices in climate change adaptation Periodic measuring of MCIT’s carbon footprint as a pilot project for wider application 8 - Conclusion 8 1 Monitoring and Evaluation Given the pivotal role of the ICT sector in the development and growth of all sectors of the economy and the cross- sectoral nature of many of the programs and initiatives of the National ICT Strategy for 2012-2017 MCIT has adopted an integrated approach to monitoring and evaluating the implementation of activities related to the strategy This approach rests on three axes as follows First Executive Structure Executive structure Formation of an integrated group of committees to monitor programs initiatives at all levels with the inclusion of a number of primary beneficiaries Human resources Selection of committee members according to their areas of expertise Information Preparation of periodic reports on programs initiatives to assist decision makers and committee members in monitoring progress and taking necessary action The framework for decision-making determination of priorities and monitoring work depends on three main pillars Table 8 1 Executive Structure Program Initiative Level Table 8 1 Executive Structure ICT Sector Internal committee comprising representatives of MCIT and affiliated entities that reports to the Minister of Communications and Information Technology Supreme committee comprising concerned ministers National Level Regional Level International Level 84 85 Committees National committee comprising representatives of MCIT other ministries and government entities that reports to the supreme committee Regional committee headed by a representative of MCIT Internal committee comprising representatives of MCIT and affiliated entities International committee including a representative of MCIT Internal committee comprising representatives of MCIT and affiliated entities 8 - Conclusion Monitoring and evaluation of progress and performance in the various programs and initiatives of the strategy requires the collection of data during project implementation for periodic analysis in reference to project plans and agreed standards after which an array of indicators are determined to assess outputs Project outcomes are to be evaluated based on efficiency effectiveness and sustainability providing valuable information for the expansion or replication of programs The evaluation strategy is based on three main axes as follows 1- Development of ICT sector performance indicators 2- Monitoring and Follow-up Monitoring project inputs in order to improve operational frameworks Monitoring project activities and following up to achieve desired outcomes Table 8 2 ICT Indicators Development Program Main Program Executive Programs ICT Indicators Standardization Program ICT Indicators Development Program Third Analysis of Project Outcomes Table 8 2 ICT Indicators Development Program Second Monitoring and Evaluation Processes Monitoring factors that could affect project implementation with a view to developing solutions Analytical Studies Development Program Data Production and Dissemination Program ICT Sector Data Partnership Program Evaluating project outputs using clear indicators to assess levels of achievement against initial targets Following up with project beneficiaries to gather perceptions comments and complaints Financial follow-up of projects 3- Assessing Change in Target Categories Ongoing assessment of project outputs during the implementation phase followed by evaluation of outcomes in relation to initial plans Participatory approach to monitoring and evaluation where project partners cooperate in assessments 86 87 8 2 Conclusion The efforts of MCIT since its establishment in 1999 have led to the emergence of an ICT sector that has driven forward human social and economic development on the national level and earned a solid reputation both regionally and internationally With the National ICT Strategy for 2012-2017 MCIT aims to promote the continued growth of Egypt’s ICT sector which has an important role to play in supporting the country’s transition to democracy Aims Providing accurate data and indicators on the ICT sector Supporting the standardization of ICT indicators Improving Egypt’s regional and global image through effective cooperation with international organizations Implementing an array of short- and long-term studies on the micro and macro performance of the ICT sector and its relationship to the national economy Analyzing and measuring the ICT sector’s impact on and role in the national economy and social and economic development Developing databases for ICT indicators and compiling indicators reports and other materials for distribution to concerned parties Building a partnership with other ministries agencies and companies operating in the ICT sector to collect data Identifying the basic information and indicators required by companies operating in the ICT sector to support their operations and marketing strategies The initiatives and programs of the strategy which cover a wide range of themes and sectors are being implemented through public- private partnerships – involving cooperation between MCIT other ministries and government entities civil society organizations regional and international organizations and the private sector MCIT favors this approach as the sharing of responsibilities and efforts and the resulting successes guarantees the active engagement of stakeholders in the future of the sector and society at large Copyrights © Ministry of Communications and Information Technology All rights reserved No part of this publication may be produced stored in a retrieved system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic mechanical photocopying recording or otherwise without prior permission or reference to this source