Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) for Sustainable Development

Course Background

This course explores how Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) act as powerful enablers of sustainable development across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Participants will gain a strategic understanding of how digital tools support the SDGs, enhance governance, improve service delivery, and foster inclusive and resilient development.

Objectives

Understand the relationship between ICTs and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Identify ICT applications across economic, social, and environmental sustainability.

Analyze how digital tools enhance efficiency, transparency, and participation.

Evaluate opportunities and challenges of ICT deployment, including digital divides.

Develop strategic approaches for integrating ICTs into development programs.

Learn from global ICT4D case studies and best practices.

Modules

NoModuleDetails1Introduction to ICTs and Sustainable DevelopmentDefinition and evolution of ICTs, SDGs overview, ICT4D frameworks, transformative role of ICTs, digital divide challenges.2ICTs for Economic Sustainable DevelopmentDigital finance, mobile money, e-commerce, digital entrepreneurship, job creation, productivity, green economic growth.3ICTs for Social Sustainable DevelopmentE-health, telemedicine, e-learning, social inclusion, gender equality, digital citizenship, humanitarian communication.4ICTs for Environmental Sustainable DevelopmentSmart grids, environmental monitoring, remote sensing, AI/ML for climate and biodiversity, waste management, smart cities.5Emerging ICTs and Their Impact on Sustainable DevelopmentAI & ML, IoT, blockchain, Big Data analytics, robotics, automation, implications for sustainable development.6Challenges, Governance, and Future of ICT4SDDigital ethics, data governance, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, policy frameworks, future opportunities and risks.