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ICT skills readiness for the emerging global digital economy among small businesses in developing countries: Case study of Botswana

Stephen M. Mutula (Department of Library and Information Studies, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana)
P. Van Brakel (Faculty of Business Informatics, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South Africa)

Library Hi Tech

ISSN: 0737-8831

Article publication date: 19 June 2007

8291

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to present the findings of an empirical study carried out as part of an ICT (Information and Communications Technology) data‐gathering exercise that would culminate in the promulgation of a national ICT policy for Botswana. The purpose of the study is to characterize the ICT sector in terms of, among other things, the skills needs in the sector for the purpose of powering the emerging digital economy. Moreover, the study – through review of literature – extends, to cover the status of ICT skills for the digital economy both in developed and developing countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used qualitative design. Focus group discussions were used to collect data from key stakeholders in the ICT sector. The stakeholders included: ICT enterprises, Citizen Owned IT companies lobby group (CORBIT), Botswana Telecommunication Corporation, Botswana Power Corporation, business community, academia, and legal experts. Data collected were analyzed using thematic categorization. Results were presented using descriptive and narrative form.

Findings

The findings generally suggest that there is an acute global shortage of high skilled and hands‐on personnel necessary for steering the emerging digital economy in both developed and developing countries including Botswana. In addition, there is a serious skills gap for certified specialists to help develop the sophisticated applications necessary to power the digital economy and more so the applications that depend on it.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical part of the study was limited to the ICT sector of the economy in Botswana. A similar study covering all sectors of the national economy will provide a complete picture of ICT skills needs for the nation and its preparedness to partake in the emerging digital economy.

Practical implications

ICT, particularly the internet, is having a significant impact on the operations of business enterprises and is claimed to be essential for the survival and growth of nations' economies. Botswana Government has realized the folly of depending largely on diamond mining for long‐term economic development. Consequently, it is encouraging the development of the ICT sector as a way to diversify its economy and position itself to play a leading role in the global emerging digital economy.

Originality/value

This study provides a framework for ICT skills development strategies that can enable countries to participate competitively in the emerging digital economy.

Keywords

Citation

Mutula, S.M. and Van Brakel, P. (2007), "ICT skills readiness for the emerging global digital economy among small businesses in developing countries: Case study of Botswana", Library Hi Tech, Vol. 25 No. 2, pp. 231-245. https://doi.org/10.1108/07378830710754992

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2007, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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