The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) in Qatar has launched the 2024 Digital Inclusion Index, marking a significant step toward building an inclusive digital society. The report aims to enhance digital accessibility, affordability, and skills for all members of society, aligned with Qatar’s Digital Agenda 2030 and National Vision 2030.
The launch event was attended by Minister of Communications and Information Technology, HE Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, and other key government and private sector representatives. The index will be regularly updated to track advancements in digital inclusion, ensuring that all segments of society can access the benefits of digital technology.
The report highlights seven key pillars, including digital access, ability, affordability, policies, attitudes toward digital tech, adoption, and content. Qatar’s strong digital infrastructure, including comprehensive 5G and 4G network coverage, has played a significant role in positioning the country as second regionally and 16th globally in terms of digital inclusion.
Additionally, initiatives like the “Better Connections” program and “SafeSpace” platform have helped enhance the digital skills and safety awareness of over 1.5 million migrant workers, contributing to the nation’s efforts to build a digitally empowered society. Qatar’s investments in education and ICT have resulted in a highly skilled population, with 77% of individuals aged 15 and older completing secondary education, directly impacting their digital capabilities.
The report also stresses the importance of advanced regulatory frameworks for emerging technologies like AI and IoT in fostering digital trust. Qatar’s future goals include further improvements in digital access, competencies, and trust, along with targeted initiatives to bridge the digital gap, especially for senior citizens and individuals with lower digital proficiency.
Reem Al Mansoori, Assistant Undersecretary for Digital Industry Development at MCIT, emphasized the importance of digital inclusion in Qatar’s vision for a sustainable, knowledge-based economy, ensuring no one is left behind in the rapidly evolving technological landscape. The Digital Inclusion Index serves as both a benchmark and roadmap to guide these efforts.
Financial Projections and Impact Assessment:
- Digital Access: 10% increase in digital access by 2030.
- Digital Competency: 30% improvement in digital competencies.
- Digital Trust: 20% boost in digital trust.
Qatar’s comprehensive approach to digital inclusion positions the country to continue its leadership in technology and innovation, creating a future-ready society.
