Approaches to the formulation and implementation of ICT

Approaches to the formulation and implementation of ICT Policy in Nepal Manohar K Bhattarai manohar_kb@wlink. com. np 1

Background • Explaining policy emphasis on ICT • IT/ICT Policy initiatives so far • Approaches to policy formulation in Nepal • Key issues/challenges faced

Setting the context for policy emphasis on ICTs

Info Com Policy stock-take. . . • National IT Policy, 2000 (Nepal's first IT Policy) • National IT Policy, 2010 (Revised IT Policy) • National ICT Policy, 2015 (highlights convergence, advocates streamlining of institutional arrangements, sheds supply side bias) • National Broadband Policy

Overall approach adopted. . .

Overall, a challenging context. . • ICTs mystified. . . – Considered purely technology issue (at the cost of inclusivity in policy making) • Challenges posed by cross-cutting nature of ICTs – Lack of clarity on institutional roles/responsibilities – Difficulties in advocating for alignment with sectoral development priorities and objectives • Background research – e. Readiness assessment, comprehensive benchmark

Perfunctory outlook - Everybody has a policy … we need to have one Reluctance to make hard choices >> institutional arrangements, requisite legal frameworks • By default – incremental approach • Document an end in itself>> not always backed by cogent action framework (BB Policy an exception – BB Masterplan)

- The role of public policies >> signs at times that significance is not fully appreciated >> wavering commitment to follow through policy > Near absence of realization that Policy is a living document

On the whole however, … guided strategies, created framework for action, provided basis for regulatory intervention. … process initiated public discourse on the issues

Questions remain. . - how best to secure congruence with sectoral policies - how to mainstream ICT policies and strategies in the overall development process - What could be specific programmatic interventions: unversalizing access, promoting innovation and developing a knowledge economy

Thank you. 13