1. Information Technology Association – Jordan (int@j)

2. Agenda Building a Knowledge-based Economy & Society
Results & Accomplishments
Discussion

3. Building a Knowledge-based Economy & Society

4. Background
Since 1999, Jordan is being transformed into a knowledge-based economy/ society
Jordan is developing a strong local ICT sector to support the economy & build a knowledge-based economy & society
Jordan is joining the global e-economy, expanding its reach beyond physical boundaries

5. Benefits of a Knowledge-based Society
Empowered population
Better education for all
Eliminate digital gap
Quality jobs
Improved public services
Enhanced competitiveness
Independence on traditional markets
Increased exports
Foreign direct investments

6. Jordan’s Vision
Jordan shall become a regional ICT center and internationally recognized exporter of ICT products and services, exploiting its core human capital advantages
REACH 1.0, October 1999

7. His Majesty King Abdullah II, World Economic Forum, Davos, 2000
Leadership Support
“It is time to widen the scope of our participation in the knowledge economy from being mere isolated islands on the periphery of progress, to becoming an oasis of technology that can offer the prospect of economies of scale for those who venture to invest in our young available talent.”
His Majesty King Abdullah II, World Economic Forum, Davos, 2000

8. Our Human Talent The most important ingredient in ICT
Jordan’s one and only true resource
A literacy rate of 95%, the highest in the region
Over 50% of the population under the age of 20
17k IT graduates over the coming three years
Focusing on quality to meet demand requirements

9. Jordan’s REACH Initiative
A strategy, to develop a vibrant export-oriented ICT sector and maximize the sector’s ability to compete in the global economy
Compares Jordan's strengths and weaknesses vis-à-vis other relevant markets
A 5-year action plan with specific tasks and responsibilities

10. Strategic Pillars Regulatory Framework Strengthening
Enabling Environment (Infrastructure)
Advancement Programs
Capital & Finance
Human Resources Development

11. Results & Accomplishments

12. Important Initiatives Launched
REACH Initiative in progress
Jordanian e-Educational & Reform Initiatives
National Broadband Learning Network
Human Resources Development (
Knowledge Stations Initiative
e-Government Program

13. International Partnerships Formed
World Economic Forum - WEF (JEI)
Cisco (e-content, technical education, accessibility)
Microsoft (Government Framework Agreement)
Oracle (Higher Educational Initiative)
DHL (Corporate e-learning)
Intel (I-Lab, Teach to the future program)
Many other companies and NGOs

14. Economic Results 99/00 2001 2002 2003 Local market $60m $130m $190m
Exports
$10m
$40m
$70m
Employment
1,250
6,000
8,000
9,000
FDI -
$68m
$75m

15. Other Accomplishments
15+ laws amended, substantial legal reform
ICT development considered national priority
Infrastructure significantly enhanced
ICT sector well formed