As the digital age accelerates, bringing with it revolutionary changes to the way we live, work and connect, the Caribbean finds itself at a pivotal crossroads.
The journey towards digital empowerment and economic resilience is not just a path we may choose to take, it is a necessary evolution to ensure the prosperity and competitiveness of our region in the global marketplace.
My speech at FinTech Islands 2024, Closing the Tech Literacy Gap in the Caribbean, is more than just a presentation, it is a clarion call to action for entrepreneurs, educators, policymakers and citizens across the region. The essence of my message is simple yet profound – the key to unlocking the Caribbean's full potential lies in bridging the digital divide that separates us from the boundless opportunities of the digital era.
This gap isn't merely about access to technology, it's about understanding, mastering and leveraging it to drive innovation, create wealth and improve the quality of life for all our people.
It's about transforming the way we think about education, business and community engagement in a world where digital literacy is as fundamental as reading and writing.
The roadmap to a digitally literate Caribbean is multifaceted and requires a collective effort.
Recall the first time you mounted a bicycle, the mixture of excitement and nervousness, the shaky beginnings and the unavoidable falls.
This adventure mirrors our initial steps into the world of digital tools and platforms. Just as learning to ride a bike demands an understanding of balance, the digital landscape calls for foundational tech knowledge, critical thinking and a commitment to lifelong learning. This analogy brings to light the crucial role of mentors and educators who provide the necessary support, encouraging us when we falter and helping us up when we stumble, much like someone steadying the bike for us as we learn to pedal.
Now, let's consider the leap in complexity when operating a luxury vehicle or piloting an F-35 Lightning. These examples epitomise the pinnacle of complexity and sophistication within their domains, brimming with features that might overwhelm the untrained.
Transitioning from basic digital literacy to mastering advanced technologies is akin to evolving from bicycling to driving a Rolls Royce or flying a cutting-edge jet.
Back in Canada, when online banking first debuted, the banks held workshops in the branches for over six months, training people on how to use the online services.
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At Apple, people were taught how to do mobile banking on their devices, so they got more comfortable with doing day-to-day activities.
To bridge the digital literacy gap in the Caribbean, we must commit to developing and supporting education and training initiatives that accommodate all stages of digital fluency.
By doing so, we empower individuals to not only navigate but also excel in the digital world, paving the way for our region's prosperity in th
