Abu Dhabi: The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) held the inaugural meeting of the global network of acceleration centers affiliated with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). It aimed to encourage and spread a culture of innovation, aiming to help develop the governments and societies represented by these centers.
The ITU initiated the establishment of a global network for these centers, following the UAE’s initiative to create the International Center of Digital Innovation (I-CoDI) in 2020. This initiative, developed in collaboration between TDRA and the ITU, aims to create an enabling platform that unites partners and policymakers to enhance communication and accelerate digital transformation by applying innovative concepts and leveraging advanced technologies.
During the opening speech Eng. Majid Al Madhloum, Senior Manager of Digital Capabilities Building and Awareness Section at TDRA, emphasized the significance of innovation in the contemporary era, underscoring its relevance not only in government operations but also in diverse facets of life.
Al Madhloum referred to the UAE experience in this field, saying, “Over the last two decades, there has been a transformative evolution across all sectors during what the UAE terms the “enablement stage.” During this period, the younger generation has been wholeheartedly supported and encouraged to unleash their creative energies, implementing modern ideas that have significantly contributed to noteworthy accomplishments. These achievements, evident in every direction today, set the stage for a new era beginning in 2022, following the UAE’s celebration of its golden jubilee. This new phase, inaugurated as the era of “future shaping,” aligns with remarkable advancements in technologies, particularly artificial intelligence and digital technologies. These advancements position us at the core of significant transformations outlined in the “We the UAE 2031” vision. The vision, characterized by its slogan “Towards New Peaks,” underscores pillars that prioritize international cooperation as a crucial key to achieving prosperity for all of humanity.”
The event’s agenda included many topics focusing on areas of enhancing competencies in the era of major digital transformations. The sessions delved into key themes such as strategic foresight, competency building, planning, harnessing available digital tools, and design. Moreover, the agenda underscored the crucial role of creative thinking and leveraging technology to propel qualitative advancements. It emphasized the creation of value through the collaborative exchange of ideas and interactions between innovative minds.
The event is scheduled to unfold over a span of five days, featuring a range of field activities and engagements, including visiting TDRA and the Museum of the Future. Additionally, the agenda includes hands-on training workshops designed to delve into the intricacies of planning and executing innovation processes, fostering competency development in this dynamic field.