The Digital Skills Forum, the premier global event for digital skills development—promoted by the United Nations specialized agency for information and communications technology (ITU)—gathers members and key stakeholders to address the critical issues needed to achieve universal digital skills and bridge the global digital skills gap.
Policymakers, practitioners, and experts from various countries will meet in Manama (Bahrain) on September 17-19 to discuss the impact of emerging technologies on current and future skillsets. Key topics will include the twin green & digital transition, the skills necessary for the safe and secure use of digital technologies, industry perspectives on skills gaps, and strategies for building strong, collaborative partnerships.
Giovanna Bottani, our Director of Operations, has been invited as a speaker to set the context for the panel on “Bridging the Digital Skills Divide” on September 17th. This panel will focus on the challenges posed by insufficient digital skills, which hinder effective Internet use and contribute to the digital divide.
“The session will explore the skills needed to close the digital divide and support those not yet utilizing digital technologies,” says Giovanna. “Topics will include the Internet utilization divide and the specific needs of groups such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, and women in rural and remote communities.”
The session aims to identify actionable solutions, tools, and strategies to foster inclusive digital capacity and skills, contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“Our contribution is clear,” Giovanna concludes. “We aim to equip vulnerable populations with high-demand digital competencies that help them overcome barriers and fully participate in society. By focusing on real-world applications and fostering inclusive environments, we aim to ensure that no one is left behind in the digital transformation.”
Join us at the ITU Digital Skills Forum to engage in meaningful discussions and collaborate on strategies to create a more inclusive digital future.
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ITU is the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs). The Organization is made up of a membership of 193 Member States and more than 1000 companies, universities and international and regional organizations. We are ITU members since 2023. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and with regional offices on every continent, ITU is the oldest agency in the UN family – connecting the world since the dawn of the telegraph in 1865.