In a world where digital transformation is no longer a choice but a necessity, the Middle East and Central Asia are poised to become key players in the global digital economy. However, this transition requires technological innovation and a robust talent pipeline capable of driving the transformation.
The region faces significant challenges in its digital transformation journey. A 2023 report by the International Labour Organization (ILO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the European Training Foundation (ETF) highlighted the urgent need for investment in education and modernizing training systems for youth in the region. The report revealed that the MENA region has the highest youth unemployment rate globally.
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To help narrow the digital skills gap, global ICT leader Huawei launched its ICT talent development CSR program – Seeds for the Future – in 2008. Huawei, in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan, IT Education Association, and telecom, regulatory, labor authorities, and vocational training bodies, is hosting the regional finals of its Seeds for the Future program for university students from the Middle East and Central Asia from August 11 to 16, 2024, in Uzbekistan.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Karimjonov Rustam, Deputy Minister of Digital Technologies of Uzbekistan, said: “We are committed to integrating advanced technology into our educational frameworks through strong public-private partnerships. By nurturing local ICT talent, we are not only preparing our youth for future challenges but also fostering an environment of innovation and growth in the digital economy.”
Empowering youth through technology
Youth are at the heart of the digital economy. They are digital natives, fluent in the language of technology and brimming with creativity and a desire to make a difference. As Shunli Wang, Vice President of Huawei Middle East and Central Asia, stated while addressing the students participating in Seeds for the Future, “You represent the future of our industry. The skills you develop, the connections you make, and the ideas you generate during this program will shape not only your careers but also the technological landscape of our region. Embrace this opportunity, challenge yourselves, and let your creativity shine.”
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Programs like Huawei’s Seeds for the Future play a crucial role in equipping young people with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Nuriddin Samatov, ICT Specialist at the Research Institute of Environment and Nature Conservation Technologies, Uzbekistan, remarked: “As a former SFTF participant, I have witnessed firsthand the impact of such programs in shaping the future of ICT professionals. Continuing to support these initiatives ensures we maintain a steady pipeline of skilled talent capable of driving digital transformation.”
Huawei transforms education through smart solutions
As Dr. Mohamed Madkour from Huawei ME&CA ICT Strategy eloquently stated during a panel discussion at Seeds for the Future regional finals, ICT is no longer a siloed industry but a foundational platform for our lives. He explained that ICT empowers the learning process, enables any organization to be more innovative and productive, and enriches regional economies to be more prosperous. He highlighted the crucial role that talent plays in driving digital transformation across the Middle East and Central Asia.
Huawei is transforming education through innovative ICT solutions. From smart campuses and classrooms utilizing IoT, big data AI and cloud computing, to the ‘Five Ones’ smart education solution integrating one screen, one network, one platform, one cloud and one app, Huawei is enhancing the quality and efficiency of teaching, research, management and service.
Introducing Wi-Fi 7 at the University of Dubai earlier this year was a significant step in enhancing network speed and quality on campus. Remote education, particularly in rural areas, is another area where Huawei’s solutions offer a pathway to inclusive and accessible learning.
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Duke Zhang, Vice President of Public Affairs, Huawei Middle East & Central Asia, said: “At Huawei, we believe that education is the cornerstone of future innovation. By integrating cutting-edge technologies into educational systems, we are not only enhancing the learning experience but also preparing the next generation of leaders and innovators.”
The future of ICT in the region
The future of technology in the region is incredibly promising, with several key trends, including AI, big data analytics and cloud computing, poised to make a substantial impact. Huawei is actively aligning its strategy with these trends to drive further innovation and transformation.
From leveraging AI and big data capabilities to partnering with governments and enterprises in implementing smart city and e-government solutions to developing comprehensive security solutions safeguarding critical infrastructure and sensitive data across all sectors, Huawei is at the forefront of driving the region’s digital transformation.
Through initiatives like Seeds for the Future, Huawei is not just shaping the future of ICT in the Middle East and Central Asia but cultivating the talent that will drive this future.
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