ICT and Innovation
From The Report: Misrata 2024
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In an increasingly interconnected world, ICT has become indispensable. Libya’s demographic profile, with a median age of 26.1 as of 2020, creates a conducive environment for digitalisation. By leveraging digital technologies and communications networks, Misrata aims to take advantage of physical infrastructure like road connections, ports and industrial capacity to drive economic growth across sectors. This is visible in the transition of the Misurata Free Zone to fully electronic operational management. The government has recognised the importance of ICT in driving economic growth, enhancing service delivery and improving the quality of life of residents, with policies that outline the vision for digital transformation. They are a foundation for fostering innovation, improving efficiency, and promoting transparency and accountability

This chapter contains an interview with Majdi Ashibani, Chairman, Libyan Academy.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

Digital development
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As Misrata looks to rebuild and diversify its economy after a period of instability, ICT has emerged as a potential catalyst for driving growth and development. Steps are being taken in order to facilitate the digitalisation of services and trade, as well as encourage technology adoption, boosting efficiency in both the public and private sectors. In an increasingly interconnected world, ICT has become indispensable. Libya’s demographic profile, with a median age of 26.1 as of 2020, creates a conducive environment for digitalisation. By leveraging digital technologies and communications networks, Misrata aims to take advantage of physical…

Analysis

Transformation and literacy
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Libya’s commitment to digital transformation nationwide and innovation is evident in the inauguration of the Digital Lab training initiative, in Tunis in March 2023. Supported by the EU, these programmes assist Libyan institutions in digitalising their operations, optimising processes and enhancing overall efficiency. The pioneering digital laboratory, the first of its kind in the country, aims to elevate the government’s stature and foster coordination among diverse institutions. Investment in e-government services has been a key focus of the government’s digital transformation agenda. Misrata has been working towards streamlining…

Analysis

Accessibility and security
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In addition to EHRs, telemedicine and remote health care services have gained traction in Misrata. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with health care professionals remotely, reducing the need for physical visits and improving accessibility, particularly for those in remote areas. It has played a crucial role in enhancing health care access and quality, especially during the pandemic when physical distancing was necessary. The integration of ICT in health care has also led to improved coordination among medical providers, enabling efficient communication, streamlined workflows and better health care management. ICT tools facilitate…

Interview

Skill building: Majdi Ashibani, Chairman, Libyan Academy
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Interview: Majdi Ashibani In what ways is the demand for technical skills in the broader workforce changing? MAJDI ASHIBANI:In recent years, the landscape of workforce demands in Misrata has been evolving, and we have observed a significant shift in the demand for technical skills. Digitalisation is a growing priority in the public and private sectors. With the Covid-19 pandemic, this process has accelerated. There is increased awareness of how pivotal technology is for adaptability and business…

Analysis

Tech start-up ecosystem
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The city of Misrata has a growing technology start-up ecosystem thanks to the emergence of ICT as a catalyst for business growth and entrepreneurship in the area. A number of technology companies and service providers have been established in Misrata in recent years, offering a variety of services and contributing to the digital transformation of other companies and industries that are based in the city. Additionally, ties to Tripoli provide entrepreneurs with supplemental resources. In…

Analysis

Capacity building
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The growing ICT industry and start-up ecosystem in Misrata are showing promise, and policymakers are exploring ways to boost access to reliable internet connectivity and power supply to unleash the full potential of ICT-driven entrepreneurship. Ensuring robust cybersecurity measures and data privacy protection is crucial to building trust in digital transactions. Notably, mobile phones are the preferred means of internet access for 80.7% of Libyan internet users, with laptop and desktop computers following as the most favoured devices for online connectivity. Capacity building and ICT skills development programmes offer the potential to…