Interview: Mohammed Ali Al Qaed, CEO, Information & eGovernment Authority
In what ways do emerging technologies shape the digital transformation strategy for public services?
MOHAMMED ALI AL QAED: Emerging technologies are central to digital transformation strategies, significantly enhancing public services. The iGA has established a new directorate focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies to spearhead these initiatives. The body oversees digital sandbox environments, which provide a controlled testing environment for start-ups, technology companies and government entities to experiment with innovative solutions. The digital sandbox environment reduces risk and fosters innovation by allowing stakeholders to test their solutions, including AI-powered applications, before wider deployment.
Where do you see a role for global technology firms in the digitalisation of public services?
AL QAED: Collaborations with major technology firms are vital in driving public sector digitalisation. By engaging with global technology leaders such as US firms Microsoft, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and other prominent companies, Bahrain is able to access advanced technology and world-leading expertise. These partnerships have been instrumental in the government’s cloud migration efforts, which have significantly reduced infrastructure costs and improved the agility of service delivery. For example, the Bahraini government has transitioned to Microsoft Office 365, enhancing security with two-factor authentication and benefitting from Microsoft’s security intelligence. Similarly, an agreement with AWS has allowed services to be scaled efficiently, reducing the cost and time to market new government initiatives.
How does the accessibility of digital government services serve diverse segments of the population?
AL QAED: Achieving nearly 100% internet coverage has been a milestone in inclusivity efforts, as it ensures every citizen can access government services online. Furthermore, several initiatives have been implemented to make these services more user-friendly and accessible. For instance, training and capacity-building programmes have been specifically designed to empower all users, including the elderly and less tech-savvy persons, enabling them to utilise digital services effectively.
Additionally, the standards for government service centres are rigorously maintained to ensure they meet accessibility and usability standards. These centres provide an avenue for those who may find online platforms challenging, ensuring that everyone has equal access to public services. Through these centres and platforms, multiple channels are available to cater to the needs of the population, enhancing the reach and effectiveness of digital transformation initiatives.
What is being done to enhance the security of public services through digital transformation initiatives?
AL QAED: Enhancing the security and efficiency of public services is a top priority. For instance, two-factor authentication has been implemented, making email security systems more resistant to cyberattacks. The National Cybersecurity Centre was established as part of a broader strategy to integrate real-time security intelligence, helping protect sensitive government data.
Moreover, introducing biometric apps is a step forwards in ensuring that services are secure, more accessible and efficient for the public. By linking more than 20 databases, citizens no longer need to provide the same documentation for different services repeatedly.
Additionally, the transition to cloud-based services, facilitated through partnerships with major technology organisations, has reduced the cost and time that is required to launch new initiatives. For example, during the Covid-19 pandemic a contact tracing app was deployed in one week. This agility and efficiency in deployment is central to digital transformation efforts, ensuring that Bahrain is able to continue to meet the evolving needs of citizens both securely and efficiently.
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