IT industry lauded for increasing computer literacy

The Foundation also called for strengthening the partnership between the public and the private sectors to accelerate the transformation to digital societies.

"The Gulf region has made commendable progress in terms of computer penetration and technology adoption, and the pioneering role played by the region's IT industry in making this possible is worthy of the highest praise," said Jamil Ezzo, Director General of ICDL AGCC Foundation.

He noted that personal computers have become an essential part of every household, and in the light of the e-government movement, more support should be given to families and individuals to avail of the benefits of this vital tool.

The GCC region at large has seen significant increase in digital literacy and PC penetration in the last few years, due to awareness and education campaigns aimed at bringing IT into the social mainstream and the growing affordability of computers and software solutions.

Technological breakthroughs achieved by PC manufacturers have brought down computer prices under $250, and easy instalment schemes have been made available, making computers within the reach of larger sections of society.