Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Technology has signed an agreement with the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) to facilitate the development of cloud-based government digital services platforms. This venture is anticipated to augment the public sector’s data management capacities, fortify security, curtail expenses, and ensure continuous operation even during calamities.
The prime focus is to craft a resilient government technology stack that is not only secure but also fosters open data computing systems. The grant facilitates a comprehensive assessment of current operations, identifies hurdles in law implementation and procurement processes, and aids in crafting standards for data classification. Additionally, the grant aims to assist with designs for data centres and platform architectures, whilst developing a strategy to build capacity in the sector. To better comprehend and prepare for financial and project implementation challenges, gathering significant data is of utmost importance.
A collaborative effort between the public and private sectors with cloud service providers and other tech vendors is on the cards. This initiative will oversee the establishment of a Cloud Center of Excellence, designed to impart training and extend expertise on global best practices pertinent to public sector cloud adoption.
Minister Aminath Shauna, representing the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Technology, expressed the importance of ICT sector development and the digital interconnection of Maldivian islands. She also emphasised that the accord would pave the way for a robust national cloud. This infrastructure will underpin the nation’s digital services, ensuring safety and stability. Moreover, such a partnership will expedite Maldives’ digital advancement endeavours through continuous engagement with global cloud service providers.
His Excellency Hugo Yon, the U.S. Ambassador to the Maldives, endorsed the agreement for the US Trade and Development Agency. Minister Aminath Shauna ratified the accord for the Maldives. As part of the agreement, a grant of £895,000 has been pledged by the U.S. government to finance the project.