Ministry of Commerce & Technology

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Internationally acclaimed Harvard Professor Mr. Calestous Juma will head a panel discussion hosted by the Cabinet Office on the topic 'Going for growth and development through ICT' at the OPM Media Centre commencing at 10:00 a.m. on Friday February 17. The other presenters are Minster of Commerce, Science and Technology Hon. Phillip Paulwell and Chief Executive Officer of e-Services Group Mr. Patrick Casserly.

Professor Juma is the Director of the Science, Technology and Globalization Project at the John F. Kennedy School of Government's Belfer Centre for Science and International Affairs. He is an internationally recognized authority and leader in the application of science and technology to sustainable development in developing and developed countries. His work has contributed significantly to the understanding of how innovations in technology impact economic transformation in developing countries. Professor Juma's presentation will focus on what Jamaica should do to fuel growth and development through ICT.

The presentation by technology Minister Phillip Paulwell will examine the transformation of the information and communication technology sector in Jamaica. The local ICT sector has experienced rapid growth in recent years resulting from substantial investment in the country's telecommunications infrastructure and the delivery of IT services. The sector is now perceived as a lucrative industry employing over 6,000 persons.

Chief Executive Officer of e-Services Group Patrick Casserly will undertake a review of the job opportunities available in the local ICT sector. His contact centre company employs over 1,300 Jamaicans and is headquartered in Montego Bay. In January of last year the company announced plans to undertake a US$2.6-million IT investment in St Lucia.

The panel discussion series was organized by the Cabinet Office to analyze Jamaica's progress toward achieving growth and to determine the next steps to reach our national goals. The series began in November last year and have stimulated public discussion on issues relating to poverty alleviation, governance and Jamaica's role in the international arena. The fora have attracted high level speakers such as former Commonwealth Secretary General Sir Shridath Ramphal and Governor General-designate of Jamaica, Professor Kenneth Hall.

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