1.3
Definition of Information and Communication Technology
Information
and
communication
technology
(ICT)
is
the
convergence
of
communications, computing and information technologies. This convergence has resulted
in the development of new and improved services delivered over a diverse range of
technological platforms. Today, ICT encompasses telecommunications - fixed and
wireless, broadcasting, multi-media, software development, electronic publishing,
information storage and retrieval, email, distance learning, telemedicine, postal services,
electronic commerce, the Internet and much more. In the years to come, we can anticipate
an ever-expanding cornucopia of ICT products and services that will continually
transform our lives and the world in which we live.
1.4
The Importance of ICT
ICTs can have a wizard effect on speeding the development process of the country. ICTs
make it possible to deliver information by means of voice, text, data, video and graphics
faster and more efficiently than before. Furthermore, the constantly evolving range and
quality of ICT delivery platforms is improving the availability and affordability of
accessing of information. These developments provide an enabling environment for
Government to work with the private sector and civil society to improve and expand
access to information for all its citizens.
For example, ICTs can be used to reduce inequalities among the sexes, by providing
women with greater access to meaningful information. They can also be used to improve
the lives of the disabled with technologies that enable the deaf to communicate more
effectively with the hearing world and the physically immobilised to study and work
from home through the Internet. Telemedicine applications can save lives in rural areas
by speeding diagnosis and treatment for the isolated. Distance education provides an
inexpensive and effective means of developing the human resource capacity throughout
the country. E-Government services improve access to and knowledge of Government
services as well as provide a vehicle for strengthening democracy.
ICT Policy for Lesotho
13