Speakers emphasize the role of digital skills in ICT for sustainable development

In a speech marking International Youth Day 2024, Speaker of Parliament Lord Fakafanua praised Tongan youth while highlighting the importance of digital skills for sustainable development. The commemoration took place during the inaugural Youth ICT Symposium hosted by Tonga Women in ICT (TWICT) at the Tanoa International Dateline Hotel.

The theme of this year’s International Youth Day is “From Clicks to Progress: Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development by Youth”, which highlights the transformative power of digital technologies. Lord Fakafanua highlighted the role of these technologies in enhancing various sectors such as education, health, transport and communications, asserting that they are important tools for empowering Tongan youth.

The Youth ICT Symposium explored how Tonga can use technology to bridge gaps, create opportunities for Tongan youth and contribute to national development. Lord Fakafanua stressed the importance of digital skills and warned that a lack of these skills could lead to challenges such as privacy breaches, cyber threats and digital addiction. He encouraged responsible use of technology, including limiting screen time and developing healthy digital habits.

Looking ahead, Tonga will host the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in Nuku’alofa, providing a platform for regional leaders to discuss technology challenges and opportunities. Lord Fakafanua reiterated the Legislative Assembly’s commitment to enacting laws and policies that promote the safe and efficient use of technology and ensure that every young Tongan can contribute effectively to the country’s progress.