At the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference, global policymakers, industry leaders, and experts came together to tackle the pressing issue of the digital divide. The session titled “Enhancing Digital Capacity Building & Bridging the Digital Divide” highlighted the urgent need for inclusive policies, partnerships, and education to ensure everyone benefits from technological advancements.
Former Finnish Prime Minister Esko Aho kicked off the discussion by emphasizing how collaboration between governments and the private sector has historically driven technological progress. Drawing on the example of the U.S. Apollo program, he noted how strategic investments in innovation during the space race paved the way for today’s digital infrastructure. “Building human capacity is our greatest challenge,” Aho remarked, urging nations to invest in long-term educational reforms that equip people with essential digital skills.
Svay Nakry, Undersecretary of State for Cambodia’s Ministry of Commerce, shared her country’s five-pillar strategy to promote digital inclusion. Key initiatives include subsidizing internet and cloud computing costs for small businesses, expanding broadband infrastructure, and launching platforms like CambodiaTrade.org to connect local enterprises with global markets. She highlighted the importance of supporting women-led businesses, pointing out that 70% of Cambodia’s small and medium-sized enterprises are owned by women.
Sajjad Ahadzadeh, President of Iran’s Center for Progress and Development, outlined initiatives like establishing technology parks, offering tax incentives to knowledge-based companies, and leveraging open-access AI projects. He advocated for introducing programming and AI literacy in schools to prepare the next generation for a digital future.
The panelists unanimously called for international collaboration to address regulatory challenges, share best practices, and scale successful models. They stressed that no single nation or entity can bridge the digital divide alone. Instead, building global ecosystems is crucial to ensure technology serves as a bridge rather than a barrier to inclusive growth.
The session wrapped up with audience questions about artificial intelligence in China. The experts agreed that fostering international partnerships is key to harnessing AI for the benefit of all.
