2019 was a significant year for the Pacific region’s involvement in the Internet economy, showcasing that small island developing states (SIDS) could excel on the global stage. The International Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), responsible for managing domain names and IP addresses worldwide, saw notable leadership from the Pacific.
Maureen Hilyard, a member of the Internet Society Board of Trustees, was elected as Chair of the ICANN At-Large Advisory Committee (ALAC) for 2019 and re-elected for the following year. Her leadership, honed through distance learning from Rarotonga in New Zealand, exemplifies the region’s capability to lead in international organizations.
Another standout figure, Pua Hunter from the Cook Islands, was appointed as the regional co-chair for the Government Advisory Committee (GAC) within ICANN. Her role in leading the GAC’s Underserved Regions Committee underscores the Pacific’s impact in shaping Internet governance.
The Pacific Islands Chapter of the Internet Society (PICISOC) witnessed a resurgence with the return of former Board leaders, enhancing its membership and activities. Noteworthy achievements, such as Branicia Itsimaera’s graduation in Computing Systems from New Zealand, highlight the region’s dedication to fostering ICT talent.
Participation in the Asia Pacific Regional Internet Governance Forum in Russia saw PICISOC representatives Anju Mangal and Maureen Hilyard engaging actively. The addition of James Ah Wai from Samoa, who assumed leadership in the Samoa Information Technology Association post-event, underscores the Pacific’s growing influence in Internet governance.
Students from 11 Pacific Island nations made a mark at the FIRST Global Challenge, an international robotics event promoting STEM careers. Samoa secured a commendable 26th rank globally, with the Cook Islands closely following at 30th place, showcasing the region’s talent and potential.
The establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Information Technology in the Cook Islands, a collaboration between the governments of India and the Cook Islands, signifies a significant step towards advancing ICT training locally. Tailored programs aim to meet the specific needs of the Cook Islands’ business community, reflecting a model of international cooperation with localized impact.
The Pacific’s active participation and leadership in global Internet governance forums, initiatives to empower youth in STEM fields, and collaborations for skill development underscore the region’s growing influence and potential in the digital economy. These developments highlight the Pacific’s commitment to leveraging technology for socio-economic progress and global engagement.
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