As the buzz around the Digital Jamaica Project heats up following the successful staging of the Digital Jamaica Summit & Showcase on September 3, 2024, you might be wondering what all the excitement is about. If you’ve got questions, the Entrepreneur Weekly has answers. Here’s a deep dive into the most frequently asked questions about the Digital Jamaica Training, designed to bring you up to speed on this groundbreaking initiative.
1. What is Digital Jamaica?
In October 2023, the European Union (EU) launched the €9.5-million Digital Transition Programme for Jamaica, an innovative programme to increase inclusive access to and use of ICT across the country, in support of the country’s transition towards a digital economy and society.
Dubbed Digital Jamaica, the programme’s objectives are two-fold: to connect Jamaicans with improved broadband access while providing those working and learning in the education section with training in digital skills.
2.When does the training begin?
Mark your calendars for October 16, 2024! That’s when the first wave of training sessions kicks off. To ensure a personalised learning experience, each session will accommodate a maximum of 20 participants. It’s all about quantity here, so spots will be in high demand. Make sure you’re ready to secure your place when registration opens.
3.What are the areas to be covered?
The training is as comprehensive as it gets, divided into three main areas:
– Digitisation (60% of Trainees): This segment is all about transforming traditional business practices. You’ll learn to convert physical records into digital formats, automate processes like invoicing, and migrate data to the cloud for better security and accessibility.
– Digitalisation (30% of Trainees): Here, the focus shifts to improving business efficiency through digital means. Expect to learn how you can automate workflows, integrate digital systems, harness and apply data analytics, and adopt cloud solutions to stay ahead in the game.
– Digital Transformation (10% of Trainees): This part explores leveraging emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and big data analytics. It’s about making data-driven decisions and boosting organisational agility to adapt swiftly to market demands.
4.Who will conduct the training?
You’ll be learning from the best in the business. The Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce (MIIC) will support digital transitioning services delivered to MSMEs across the country through capacity building training along with appropriate resource materials provided to Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) and the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) Network. They will be joined by expert instructors from Jamaica Technology & Digital Alliance (JTDA). These seasoned professionals bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to ensure you get top-notch training.
5.Is there a cost to participate?
Thanks to the Government of Jamaica’s partnership with the European Union (EU), there’s no cost for Micro, Small & Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) to participate. This initiative is all about bridging the digital divide and supporting the MSME sector, so your focus can be solely on learning and growing your digital skills.
6.How do I register to participate in the training?
As sessions are scheduled and announced, you can sign up through the JBDC’s website at www.jbdc.net. Keep an eye on the site as well as social media pages for updates and details on how to secure your spot. You may also subscribe to our mailing list via the website.
7.Are there opportunities for people outside of Kingston?
Absolutely! The project aims to be inclusive, with a requirement that 40% of the 2,700 trainees being from outside Kingston. This effort ensures a broad geographical representation and addresses the digital divide by reaching communities across the island. We know that ‘Kingston is not Jamaica’.
8.Am I allowed to participate in multiple sessions?
To maximise the reach and impact of the programme, each MSME is allowed to participate in only one session. This approach ensures that as many unique businesses as possible benefit from the training, rather than repeating sessions for the same participants.
9.Is there a limit to the number of persons from my organisation who can participate?
Each organisation can have up to two representatives take part in the training. This policy helps keep sessions manageable and ensures that multiple organisations can benefit from the programme’s resources.
10.Will I be able to get additional support outside of the training?
Yes, indeed! In the third year of the project, 500 participants will receive additional support for implementing digital applications in their businesses. The JBDC will also provide ongoing monitoring and consultation to help you make the most of the training and ensure your digital initiatives succeed.
So, there you have it. We have answered your questions about the Digital Jamaica Training. With a robust framework and a wealth of opportunities, this project is set to accelerate Jamaica’s digital drive forward. Take advantage of this opportunity, and be a part of the digital revolution!
Learn more about the Digital Jamaica Project: https://www.jbdc.net/project/digital-jamaica-digital-transition-programme-for-jamaica/
