Information Communication Technology reskilling framework for empowering Knowledge Societies in Uganda

Abstract

The worldwide trend towards digitalization aims at creating knowledge societies that shapes the way we live, communicate, learn, and work. Achieving this requires developing skills for innovative use of digital technologies, with education, ICTs, science, technology, and innovation forming the pillars that support this initiative. To effectively participate in a knowledge society, individuals should have multicity of skills that enable them to engage in multiple jobs through reskilling or upskilling. The upskilling programmes are seemly not readily available. This study investigates ICT reskilling framework to enable creation of solutions that could provide a platform through which individuals can obtain skills required for job market without formal education/career path. The study concludes that ICT reskilling platform enables production of multiple skilled human capital. It is recommended that the government and private institutions develop initiatives to promote digital reskills/upskilling through lifelong learning in forms of innovation hubs. In addition, efforts should identify countermeasures that can support the establishment of ICTs in underserved communities, providing broader access to a variety of ICT resources.