Digital Technologies SummitDepartment of Arts and Culture: Stance on Digital Technologies

Monica Newton

DDG: Arts, Culture, Promotion and Development

DATE: 18 March 2015

2

The Position

2

The National Development Plan (NPD) and the New Growth Path (NGP) provide a foundation recognising that digital technologies are core to the development agenda.

The NDP recognises that: Science and technology continue to revolutionise the way goods and

services are produced and traded. South Africa needs to use its knowledge and innovative products to

compete Digital technologies are

A critical element of economic growth A tool to support radical economic transformation Essential for service delivery

3

The Line of March

2

South Africa needs to sharpen its innovative edge and continue contributing to global scientific and technological advancement by: Greater investment in research and development Better use of existing resources More nimble institutions that facilitate innovation and enhanced

cooperation between public science and technology institutions and the private sector

The 2030 milestone is to make high-speed broadband internet universally available at competitive prices.

4

The Role Players

2

DAC

DTPS

DBE & DHE

DTI

DST

5

The DAC’s Position

2

The critical importance of a culture of reading and writing in which the people are empowered to participate actively and productively in society

The importance of the publishing sector as a driver in the knowledge economy

The need for policy development and strategic economic and social imperatives to respond to the digital revolution at a sectoral level

DAC in 2005 instituted a book policy review task team and made recommendations and this agenda must be revitalised in the context of the Revised White Paper on arts, Culture and Heritage

The importance of institutional coherence and partnerships between government, civil society and business

Recognising the importance of paper and digital in this current context New markets, new players, new products and radical economic

transformation

6

The Opportunity

2

Mobile technology: 114% penetration into the SA market since inception and the growth of mobile publishing

Improving access to value chain The opening of platforms for local content Digital as a platform or as an art form Current reforms in the intellectual property regime which

recognise and strengthen the policy environment Youth markets

7

From the Summit

2

We need to see clear strategic direction A framework for ongoing discussion Credible partnerships and commitment from all stakeholders

8

THANK YOU

1