Mauritius: Leveraging emerging technologies as a catalyst for socio-economic growth was thahe gist of the message of the Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation, Darsanand Balgobin, this morning at the opening of the Chief Information Officer (CIO) Summit 2023 organised by the Mauritius Emerging Technologies Council (METC) at Le Meridien in Pointe aux Piments. The Mauritius CIO Association was also launched on the occasion.
Tech leaders from the private and public sectors are participating in the Summit, held from 25 to 26 May 2023, to share their expertise and gain insights into the latest technology trends and best practices.
The Summit will cover a range of topics, including emerging technologies, industry trends, best practices, digital transformation and cybersecurity.
Addressing the participants, Minister Balgobin underpinned that the establishment of the Mauritius Emerging Technologies Council (METC) and the launching of the Mauritius CIO Association show the determination of the Government to technological advancements and innovation.
The METC, he indicated, will monitor the rapid advancement in technology and identify as well as unlock opportunities to enhance the lives of Mauritians.
As for the Mauritius CIO Association, it will provide a unique platform for CIOs and tech leaders to connect and share knowledge to shape the ever-changing technological landscape, he emphasised.
In the post-pandemic era, the Minister indicated, the METC and the Mauritius CIO Association will play a critical role in driving digital transformation and building a resilient ecosystem.
Speaking on Government’s commitment as regards emerging technologies, Balgobin dwelt on various agreements with partners such as Dubai, India and Rwanda in the space sector and field of artificial intelligence.
Against the backdrop of a rapidly technologically driven era, the need to collectively address challenges to shape a sustainable and inclusive digital future was also highlighted by the Minister.
Also, present at the event, the Chairman of the METC, Dr Suraj Juddoo, spoke of the key role of the Council, which will help to facilitate the creation of a rigid ecosystem with the adoption of novel technologies.
The Executive Director of the METC, Vrigesh Futta, for his part, highlighted the importance of embracing emerging technologies to propel the country’s digital transformation.
