Information And Communication Technology Solutions Research Articles

Fortifying Uzbekistan's integrity landscape: Harnessing India's tech-driven anti-corruption strategies

Corruption poses significant challenges to sustainable development and social justice in Uzbekistan. This paper explores how Uzbekistan can strengthen its anti-corruption framework by leveraging emerging technologies and drawing lessons from India's experience in using information and communication technology (ICT) to combat corruption. The study employs a qualitative research methodology, analysing data from government reports, case studies, and expert interviews to identify specific areas where Uzbekistan can learn from India's successes and challenges in applying ICT solutions. The findings highlight several key ways ICT can bolster anti-corruption efforts in Uzbekistan, such as increasing transparency through e-governance platforms, improving accountability via digital monitoring systems, and enabling citizen participation with online reporting tools. The paper provides concrete examples and data from India demonstrating how technologies like biometrics, blockchain, and data analytics have helped detect fraud, streamline bureaucratic processes, and empower citizens to report corruption. However, the research also reveals critical legal, institutional and cultural barriers Uzbekistan must address to effectively implement these tech-based approaches, such as outdated regulations, lack of technical expertise, and public distrust. Comparing India and Uzbekistan's contexts, the paper offers tailored recommendations for how Uzbekistan can adapt India's ICT models to overcome its unique constraints. The study concludes that while technology is not a panacea, strategically integrating ICT into Uzbekistan's anti-corruption arsenal – with insights from India's experience – can be a powerful tool to promote good governance, curb corruption, and ultimately advance social justice for citizens. More research is needed to assess the long-term impacts and scalability of specific ICT interventions.

Key value indicators: A framework for values-driven next-generation ICT solutions

Technology design, development and evaluation has long been driven by functional performance optimization and estimated market opportunities. Today, societal challenges and sustainable development goals are calling for a paradigm shift towards aligning technology development with a values-based consideration and re-prioritization of different ecological, social and economic outcomes. Values have been identified as key drivers of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) research. They are taken into account in the development of 6G networks, e.g. in the context of EU research funding frameworks, but a clear conceptual framework for values-driven development is still missing. This paper deals with the concept of Key Value Indicators (KVIs) as a method for analyzing the values-related outcomes stemming from ICT developments. Leveraging established definitions, frameworks and value identification methods, the paper proposes a structured KVI framework tailored to the ICT research and development (R&D) sector. The proposed framework comprises five steps, starting from the use case-related identification of values to the assessment of value outcomes. ICT-enabled smart cities are analyzed as an example use case to illustrate how this framework can be applied. The KVI framework is aimed to be a useful tool for the ICT research sector (to be used - primarily but not exclusively - by ICT research projects and programs) to address social challenges in technology design and development phases and to identify and estimate value outcomes from technology use. In addition, the proposed framework aims to assist policy makers to establish value-related targets and set requirements and conditions for ICT developments.

Empowering Indigenous Communities: Land Alienation in Tripura and Restoration through ICT Initiatives

This paper explores the issues of land alienation faced by indigenous communities in Tripura and the transformative role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) initiatives in addressing this challenge. The indigenous populations in Tripura have long struggled with losing their ancestral lands, resulting in social and economic disparities. However, ICT initiatives have emerged as powerful tools for documenting land rights, enhancing community empowerment, and bridging the information gap. Through a comprehensive analysis of various ICT projects, this study examines the success and challenges of using technology to protect and restore land rights. The research sheds light on the potential of ICT solutions to empower indigenous communities, strengthen their land tenure security, and foster sustainable development in Tripura.

METHODS, DATA AND TOOLS FOR FACILITATING A 3D CULTURAL HERITAGE SPACE

Abstract. In recent years, the cultural heritage (CH) sector has experienced a rapid evolution due to the introduction of increasingly powerful digital technologies and ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) solutions. As for many other domains, digital data, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Extended Reality (XR) are opening up extraordinary opportunities for expanding heritage knowledge capabilities while boosting the research on innovative solutions for its valorisation and preservation. Being aware of the fundamental and strategic role of CH in the history and identity of the European countries, the European Commission has assumed a central role in fuelling the policy debate and putting together stakeholders to take a step forward in CH digitization and use, primarily through initiatives, programs, and recommendations. Within this framework, the ongoing European 5DCulture project (https://www.5dculture.eu/) has been funded to enrich the offer of 3D CH digital assets in the common European Data Space for Cultural Heritage by creating high-quality 3D contents and to foster their re-use in several sectors, from tourism to education. Through 8 re-use scenarios around historic buildings and cityscapes, archaeology, and fashion, the project aims to deliver a set of digital tools and increase the capacity of CH institutions to more effectively re-use their 3D digital assets.

Information and Communication Technology for Managing Social Isolation and Loneliness Among People Living With Parkinson Disease: Qualitative Study of Barriers and Facilitators.

Parkinson disease (PD) is a complex, noncurable, and progressive neurological disease affecting different areas of the human nervous system. PD is associated with both motor and nonmotor symptoms, which negatively affect patients' quality of life and may cause changes in socialization such as intentional social withdrawal. This may further lead to social isolation and loneliness. The use of information and communication technology (ICT) plays an important role in managing social isolation and loneliness. Currently, there is a lack of research focusing on designing and developing ICT solutions that specifically address social isolation and loneliness among people living with PD. This study addresses this gap by investigating barriers and social needs in the context of social isolation, loneliness, and technology use among people living with PD. The insights gained can inform the development of effective ICT solutions, which can address social isolation and loneliness and improve the quality of life for people living with PD. A qualitative study with 2 phases of data collection were conducted. During the first phase, 9 health care professionals and 16 people living with PD were interviewed to understand how PD affects social life and technology use. During the second phase, 2 focus groups were conducted with 4 people living with PD in each group to gather insights into their needs and identify ways to manage social isolation and loneliness. Thematic analysis was used to analyze both data sets and identify key themes. The results showed that the barriers experienced by people living with PD due to PD such as "fatigue," "psychological conditions," "social stigma," and "medication side effects" affect their social life. People living with PD also experience difficulties using a keyboard and mouse, remembering passwords, and navigating complex applications due to their PD-related physical and cognitive limitations. To manage their social isolation and loneliness, people living with PD suggested having a simple and easy-to-use solution, allowing them to participate in a digital community based on their interests, communicate with others, and receive recommendations for social events. The new ICT solutions focusing on social isolation and loneliness among people living with PD should consider the barriers restricting user's social activities and technology use. Given the wide range of needs and barriers experienced by people living with PD, it is more suitable to adopt user-centered design approaches that emphasize the active participation of end users in the design process. Importantly, any ICT solution designed for people living with PD should not encourage internet addiction, which will further contribute to the person's withdrawal from society.

Enhancing Sustainability in Smart Cities: IoT-Enabled with Fog and Haze Mitigation Using EDN-GTM Technology

the growing reliance on Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) has prompted a shift towards smart city concepts, especially as over 70 per cent of the global population is expected to reside in urban areas by 2050. The smart city paradigm addresses the challenges of managing critical infrastructure by integrating intelligent ICT solutions across various sectors such as the economy, mobility, environment, people, living spaces, and governance. Central to this vision is the Internet of Things (IoT) role, acting as a pivotal network connecting devices and enabling seamless interactions in urban settings. Efficient energy usage is a key aspect of IoT-enabled smart cities, given the increasing demand for power with population growth. Lighting, a fundamental need, consumes a significant portion of energy, and an SLS becomes crucial for effective energy management in a smart city leveraging IoT technologies. The proposed system aims to enhance image quality and address fog-related challenges in Smart City applications by integrating IoT-based technology. In urban environments, foggy conditions can significantly impact visibility, affecting surveillance and monitoring systems. The system employs a comprehensive approach, utilising sensor data, image processing techniques, and deep learning models for efficient fog detection and removal. Key objectives include fog removal and image quality enhancement, focusing on adaptability to varying environmental conditions. The system dynamically adjusts fog removal processes based on real-time fog density information collected from cloud-based sensors. The dataset for training and evaluation is obtained from Kaggle, comprising fully foggy images. Pre-processing involves grey conversion and wavelet transform filters, simplifying image representation and extracting relevant features for subsequent stages. Segmentation with a region of interest (ROI) approach optimises processing efficiency by focusing on information-rich areas. Enhanced Dehazing Network (EDN) and Guided Transmission Map (GTM) models are separately implemented for haze removal and transmission map refinement. A hybrid approach combines the strengths of both models, aiming for superior fog removal and image quality improvement. Performance is assessed using metrics like PSNR, SSIM, TMQI, and FSIMc, providing a comprehensive evaluation. The proposed system, leveraging deep learning, adaptive processing, and IoT integration, offers an effective solution for mitigating the impact of foggy conditions in Smart City scenarios.

Assessing the Role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Safeguarding the Environment through the Application of the MOORA Method

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) plays a vital role in bolstering endeavors aimed at safeguarding the environment, and the MOORA method offers a structured approach. ICT involves the use of digital tools and technologies to manage and transmit information, enabling real-time data collection, analysis, and communication. In environmental protection, ICT aids in various ways, such as monitoring air and water quality, tracking wildlife patterns, and managing waste disposal. The MOORA method is a decision-making technique that helps prioritize alternatives based on multiple conflicting criteria. In the context of environmental protection, the MOORA method assists in selecting the most effective ICT solutions. It evaluates various ICT options by considering multiple objectives, such as efficiency, cost-effectiveness, ecological impact, and scalability. MOORA computes ratios to compare alternatives against each criterion, enabling a comprehensive assessment. By assigning weights to the criteria, stakeholders can emphasize specific factors according to their importance. For instance, when choosing between different ICT systems for waste management, the MOORA method can quantify the ecological benefits of reduced emissions, energy savings, and waste reduction against factors like implementation costs and technological feasibility. This systematic evaluation ensures that the chosen ICT solution aligns with the overall goal of environmental protection while considering practical constraints. ICT leverages advanced technologies to bolster environmental protection, and the MOORA method provides a structured approach to assess and prioritize ICT solutions. This combined approach facilitates informed decision-making, leading to the adoption of efficient and sustainable technologies that contribute to a healthier planet. The Smart Grid System (A1), E-waste Recycling Program (A2), Air Quality Monitoring Network (A3), Water Pollution Detection Sensors (A4), Green Supply Chain Management Software (A5), and Virtual Environmental Education Platform (A6) are employed as alternative solutions. These alternatives are assessed based on their ability to achieve Reduction in Environmental Impact (C1), Enhancement of Efficiency (C2), Cost Efficiency (C3), and User-Friendliness (C4).The environmental production of E-waste Recycling Program is got first rank and Smart Grid System is got lowest rank.

Use of information and communication technology in occupational therapy for older adults

Background Information and communication technology (ICT) provides one solution to meet increasing demands for occupational therapy for older adults. Aims/Objectives To examine if and how municipality-based occupational therapists (OTs) include ICT in their work, and which factors are associated with use of occupational therapy at a distance. Material and Methods Survey study including 167 OTs. Data were presented descriptively. Associations were analysed by Chi2 test and logistic regression models. Results Forty-eight percent of OTs used ICT once a month or more. OTs belief on possibilites to use ICT is associated with replacement of physical home visits. Managers expectations and support also seem to be important factors. Conclusion ICT solutions are frequently used by OTs in home health care and can be considered complementing rather than replacing physical home visits. More knowledge is needed on when and how ICT solutions can be used by OTs and how factors that impact the use of ICT can be managed.

Measuring digital transformation stress at the workplace-Development and validation of the digital transformation stress scale.

Despite the unquestionable advantages of digital transformation (DT) in organizations, the very process of DT could have an impact on the level of stress of the employees. The negative effects of the digital transformation process can be observed during the implementation of information and communication technologies (ICT) solutions. They are further enhanced by the effects of COVID-19 pandemic, as digital transformation has accelerated to allow for remote work. Herein we distinguish between general stress at the workplace and the very specific type of stress, namely digital transformation stress (DTS). We assumed that this type of stress appears when rapid implementation of ICT solutions is introduced with time pressure and incertitude of further results. To quantify this phenomenon, we developed a new self-report scale-the Digital Transformation Stress Scale (DTSS), measuring employees' stress stemming from the process of digital transformation in organizations. The psychometric validity of the scale was evaluated in two studies: Study1 conducted at the beginning of COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 (N = 229) and Study 2 in 2021 (N = 558), after a year of mostly remote work. The results confirmed good reliability with Cronbach's Alpha α = .91 in Study 1 and α = .90 in Study 2 and assumed unidimensional factorial validity of the scale in both studies. All items of the scale had good difficulty and discrimination values evaluated in Item Response Theory, i.e., IRT approach. The scale showed predicted convergent validity as the indicator of the digital transformation stress moderately correlated with general stress at work. Moreover, the assumption that even employees with high ICT skills could be affected by DTS was confirmed. Additionally, the results indicated that digital transformation stress was significantly higher among employees who reported both issues: ongoing digital solutions projects at the workplace and high impact of COVID-19 pandemic on their work. The scale could be used in future work on measuring and counteracting digital transformation stress at the workplace.

Experienced barriers in the use of ICT for social interaction in older adults ageing in place: a qualitative systematic review protocol (SYSR-D-22–00848)

BackgroundSeveral information and communication technologies (ICT) have been developed to enhance social connectedness of older adults aging in place, although they are not accessible for all. Barriers in using ICT might for example relate to health issues, sensory loss, lack of technical skills, or reluctance to use technologies. Though knowledge on these barriers is crucial for the development and implementation of ICT for older adults, no systematic review was found on this subject. The proposed qualitative systematic review aims to explore barriers experienced by older adults aging in place in using ICT for social interaction.MethodsThe review will be conducted in accordance with the JBI methodology. Databases for search will include MEDLINE (via PubMed), CINAHL (via EBSCO), and Web of Science (ISI), among others. Included studies focus on older adults ageing in place 60 years or older. Pairs of authors will independently, by following agreed guidelines, assess the eligibility of studies, and extract data. The testing of eligibility criteria and screening of titles, abstracts, and full texts will be performed. The findings will describe for example populations, context, culture, and the phenomena of interest. Qualitative research findings will, where possible, be pooled by using JBI SUMARI for the meta-aggregation approach.DiscussionThe mapping of published studies has the potential to identify research gaps in the existing literature, which again may inform developers and stakeholders in designing more user-friendly and adaptive ICT solutions for older people ageing in place.Systematic review registrationCRD42022370044.

Need for Information and Communication Technology during COVID-19: An Exploratory Study Using Nurses' Activity Diaries.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to high levels of burnout among nurses. Information and communication technology (ICT) may offer a solution to prevent a potential collapse in healthcare. The aim of this study was to identify areas where ICT could provide support, by analyzing the work of nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. This retrospective exploratory descriptive study analyzed qualitative data from the activity diaries of seven nurses working in COVID-19 wards or intensive care units. The nursing work process during COVID-19 involved "added tasks," "changed tasks," and "reduced tasks" compared to the pre-COVID-19 situation. Nurses reported difficulties in communicating with other healthcare professionals both inside and outside the isolation room, as well as with patients. The use of various ICT solutions, such as real-time video-conferencing systems or mobile robots, could enhance patient monitoring in the isolation room and improve the quality and efficiency of communication. The changes in work tasks not only led to nurse exhaustion but also negatively impacted the quality of care. ICT solutions should be explored to minimize the time spent in the isolation room, thereby reducing the risk of infection spread. This could also enhance communication among patients, family caregivers, and healthcare professionals.

Pathways Linking Information and Communication Technology Use and Loneliness Among Older Adults: Evidence From the Health and Retirement Study.

This study investigated the association between information and communication technology (ICT) use and loneliness among community-dwelling older adults (aged 65+), as well as the mediating effects of social relations, perceived control, and purpose-in-life. The study used data from the 2014 and 2018 Health and Retirement Study (N = 3,026), employing autoregressive path models with contemporaneous mediation to assess the association of 2 kinds of ICT use, social media communication and general computer use, with loneliness through the pathways of perceived social support, social contact, perceived constraints, and purpose-in-life. Social media communication had a negative association with loneliness. Perceived social support and social contact mediated this association, but not perceived constraints, or purpose-in-life. General computer use did not have a significant total effect on loneliness; however, a significant indirect effect through perceived constraints, purpose-in-life, and social contact was found. Our findings extended the existing literature regarding the important factors associated with variation in loneliness among older adults. Health programs and ICT solutions could be more effective in mitigating loneliness if they target the root causes of loneliness, including reducing perceptions of constraints and increasing a sense of purpose-in-life, along with strengthening social relationships.

Bridging the Digital Divide in Agriculture: An Investigation to ICT Adoption for Sustainable Farming Practices in Banaskantha District of Gujarat, India

This article investigates the difficulties farmers encounter in adopting and utilising ICT technologies for sustainable agriculture, with a particular emphasis on bridging the digital divide. To assess the digital divide among farmers, the study examines access to technology, digital literacy levels, and internet connectivity. Affordability, awareness, and complexity are highlighted and analysed as barriers to ICT adoption. To address these barriers, customised ICT solutions, including user-friendly tools, are being developed. The influence of these solutions on long-term farming practises were assessed. The interpretations emphasise solutions such as cost reduction, subsidisation, improved power supply, information delivery in local languages, the establishment of service centres, and the provision of training programmes. Implementing these solutions can help to bridge the digital divide, improve information access, and promote sustainable agriculture. This article examines the challenges that farmers encounter when adopting and utilizing ICT (Information and Communication Technology) solutions for sustainable agriculture, with a particular focus on addressing the digital divide. The research investigates the accessibility of technology, levels of digital literacy, and internet connectivity to determine the extent of the digital divide among farmers. It identifies and examines affordability, awareness, and complexity as obstacles to ICT adoption. To overcome these barriers, customized ICT solutions are being developed, including user-friendly tools. The long-term impact of these remedies on farming practices is being studied. The findings highlight the importance of cost-cutting measures, subsidies, improved electricity supply, information dissemination in local languages, the establishment of service centres, and the provision of training programs. Implementing these solutions can help bridge the digital divide and enhance farming practices.

Examining ICT Innovation for Sustainable Terminal Operations in Developing Countries: A Case Study of the Port of Radès in Tunisia

There is a lack of technology innovation studies in the maritime sector focusing on developing countries. Generally, these countries present various limitations due to their own social, economic, and political contexts. Moreover, the lack of leadership support, stakeholder involvement, training, resources, and financial and academic support affects successful implementation of technological innovation. The objective of this paper is to emphasize the implementation of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the maritime sector and port companies of developing countries by investigating the impact of an ICT solution on port operations from berth to gate through yard operations. Our case study consists of the implementation of a Terminal Operating System (TOS) in the Port of Radès, the main port in Tunisia. An examination of the port operations before and after the implementation of the TOS is carried out. Then, the effects of TOS implementation on terminal operations are studied through a survey based on Key Performance Indicators (KPI) and submitted to managers of three port stakeholders. Key findings indicate that TOS allows an increase in the level of productivity from the quay crane to the gate, allowing decisions to be made based on real-time data and ensuring that the terminal is operating at its full potential. More specifically, berthing and delivery service times are improved thanks to the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and the streamlining of the gate and yard activities system. The results also indicate that reputation is progressively improving due to the ability to locate and monitor hazardous goods flowing through the port, and the ability to dispatch engine movement inside the port using the new terminal layout. However, in contrast with the port authority, the results highlight a lack of adaptability on the part of the stevedoring company, which requires time to progressively adapt to the new rules and constraints.

Scoliosis Management through Apps and Software Tools.

Background: Scoliosis is curvature of the spine, often found in adolescents, which can impact on quality of life. Generally, scoliosis is diagnosed by measuring the Cobb angle, which represents the gold standard for scoliosis grade quantification. Commonly, scoliosis evaluation is conducted in person by medical professionals using traditional methods (i.e., involving a scoliometer and/or X-ray radiographs). In recent years, as has happened in various medicine disciplines, it is possible also in orthopedics to observe the spread of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) solutions (i.e., software-based approaches). As an example, smartphone applications (apps) and web-based applications may help the doctors in screening and monitoring scoliosis, thereby reducing the number of in-person visits. Objectives: This paper aims to provide an overview of the main features of the most popular scoliosis ICT tools, i.e., apps and web-based applications for scoliosis diagnosis, screening, and monitoring. Several apps are assessed and compared with the aim of providing a valid starting point for doctors and patients in their choice of software-based tools. Benefits for the patients may be: reducing the number of visits to the doctor, self-monitoring of scoliosis. Benefits for the doctors may be: monitoring the scoliosis progression over time, managing several patients in a remote way, mining the data of several patients for evaluating different therapeutic or exercise prescriptions. Materials and Methods: We first propose a methodology for the evaluation of scoliosis apps in which five macro-categories are considered: (i) technological aspects (e.g., available sensors, how angles are measured); (ii) the type of measurements (e.g., Cobb angle, angle of trunk rotation, axial vertebral rotation); (iii) availability (e.g., app store and eventual fee to pay); (iv) the functions offered to the user (e.g., posture monitoring, exercise prescription); (v) overall evaluation (e.g., pros and cons, usability). Then, six apps and one web-based application are described and evaluated using this methodology. Results: The results for assessment of scoliosis apps are shown in a tabular format for ease of understanding and intuitive comparison, which can help the doctors, specialists, and families in their choice of scoliosis apps. Conclusions: The use of ICT solutions for spinal curvature assessment and monitoring brings several advantages to both patients and orthopedics specialists. Six scoliosis apps and one web-based application are evaluated, and a guideline for their selection is provided.

A multi-actor ICT platform for increasing sustainability and resilience of small-scale farmers after pandemic crisis

PurposeThis paper proposes an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) platform to increase the sustainability and resilience of smallholders to face supply chain disruptions in the event of COVID-like crises. The platform facilitates interactions between smallholders and buyers, workers and freight transport companies in agri-food ecosystems. Furthermore, this research work presents the implementation of the freight transport companies’ platform module.Design/methodology/approachThe research work begins with a literature review aiming at analyzing current available ICT solutions supporting smallholders and other actors in the agri-food supply chain. This analysis identifies the research gaps which have to be filled by the platform. Then, the authors proceed with the analysis of the operational scenarios of each platform actor by interacting with experts and operators working in the agri-food sector. The results of such analysis resulted in a comprehensive, unambiguous and consistent set of specification being used to define the platform structure and modules architecture. The platform modules have been developed by using the web-application framework Laravel.FindingsPreliminary tests show that the proposed platform is usable and promises to improve the resilience and economic, social and environmental sustainability of agri-food supply chains, with a focus on smallholders.Originality/valueThe research work allows players in the agri-food supply chain and in particular small local producers to react and mitigate the impact of COVID-like crises through development of a platform in which smallholders, citizens (buyers and workers) and freight transport companies are simultaneously present.

Fostering inclusion for refugees and migrants and building trust in the digital public space

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the benefits of co-creation methods when designing information and communications technology (ICT) solutions to aid migrant integration by outlining the process of co-creating an innovative platform with migrants, including asylum seekers and refugees, and non-governmental organisation representatives and public service providers.Design/methodology/approachThe study used mixed methods and was divided into three stages. Researchers carried out an extensive literature review and case studies, whilst data were collected via surveys, focus groups and in-depth interviews.FindingsThe paper demonstrates that co-creation methods are essential in the development of ICT solutions for vulnerable groups like migrants, asylum seekers and refugees enabling researchers to counter the adverse effects of eurocentric bias by improving inclusiveness and trust in the platform vis-à-vis migrant users.Originality/valueThe research reflects on the development of an innovative platform, created and validated in situ with migrants and other end-users. It provides an often-unexplored analysis of the link between methodological approaches in ICT tools development (co-creation), and real-life impacts for migrants in terms of mitigating digital exclusion and white ethnocentric bias. The article complements two whitepapers and other policy briefs written on the results of this research that have informed EC policy-making in the area of migration, including the EU action plan on integration and inclusion 2021–2027.

Self-employment and Sustainable Development-Using the ICT Solutions for Greening Economic Activity

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) are continuously and rapidly evolving, and these developments can have diverse consequences. ICT solutions are ubiquitous across all sectors of the economy. From a scholarly perspective, it is intriguing to observe the areas of economic activity where ICT solutions are deployed and how these solutions can contribute to the gradual transition of the economy towards sustainability. This article reports on original research aimed at individuals seeking green self-employment opportunities through the utilization of ICT. The study considers the perspective of this specific group of people and the issue of sustainable development as it discusses ICT solutions. Thus, the article identifies two interrelated, equal, and complementary objectives. The first objective is to determine the main areas where individuals seeking green self-employment use ICT solutions. The second objective is to investigate whether ICT solutions can foster the creation of green self-employment opportunities. To achieve these objectives, the study conducts a qualitative analysis of documents that describe economic activities. These documents served as the basis for applying for funding to start a business between 2019 and 2022. Specifically 603 application forms were analyzed. The study identifies key barriers to the implementation of ICT solutions in creating self-employment opportunities and highlights future implications and areas of development for ICT solutions that focus on green self-employment.

Modern shipping needs to be cybersecure: A South African perspective

The traditional standalone operational technology systems that control multiple mechanical systems on board a ship get increasingly integrated with modern information and communications technology (ICT)-related systems. These ICT systems that continuously become interconnected with operational technologies and systems include the Internet-of-Things (IoT), autonomous technologies and the internet with adequate bandwidth etc. The IoT typically employs numerous sensors and captures vast amounts of data, which is processed, transmitted and turned into trusted intelligence to the advantage of all parties involved. Furthermore, modern navigational systems utilise global positioning systems (GPS), radar, sonar and computerised maps. These are used in conjunction with modern communication systems to communicate related data used for accurate navigation. In addition, autonomous technologies are highly dependent on accurate data communicated to them. Thus, it is clear that data is rightly termed ‘the new gold’ in the shipping industry. On the other hand, the maritime industry, like most other industries, is highly vulnerable to cybersecurity attack. As more data is captured, processed and communicated for the more critical shipping activities, the more vulnerable the industry will become to modern cybersecurity threats. Therefore, the interfaces between sensors, devices and different technologies, and the communication of captured data need to be properly secured. Furthermore, many of the shipping industry staff working with technologies where data are captured and communicated need to be educated on how to assist in securing this data. This paper will emphasise the continued use of ICTrelated systems in the shipping industry, and how this digitalisation and smart use of ICT solutions will benefit the maritime industry. In light of this, the purpose of this paper is to highlight the continued vulnerabilities to modern cybersecurity threats, and to discuss some solutions to securing these technologies towards securing the industry as a whole. The paper will also address aspects of educating maritime staff in technology-related areas ranging from the ICT- and cybersecurity-related topics that need to be included in maritime curricula, on the more formal side, to making all staff members more cybersecurity aware, on the more informal side.

IoT-Based Smart Fishing Gear for Sustainability of the Tanzania Blue Economy

The fishing industry engages many Tanzanians and is among the leading sectors of Blue Economy in the country. However, fishing practices are small-scale with poor and insufficient number of fishing facilities, hence limiting productivity and efficacy. Studies argue that the low level of technology currently used in the country could possibly be an impeding factor. Specifically, fishers use non-interactive gears that cannot instantaneously update status and alert them whenever the gears are ready for collection. In such scenarios, fishers not only waste their time but also scarce resources such as fuel to facilitate trips to and from the fishing sites to check status of the gears. Thus, the application of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) could improve the production and lower operational costs is hypothesized. ICT solutions can help realize the processes with minimum human interventions while adding intelligence to the systems to make informed decisions and hence improve systems’ efficiency. In this work, an IoT based smart fishing gear that counts and records the number of fishes in the gear and then displays them on a mobile application is proposed. The system can send alerts to the user when the required number of fish is attained, and provides navigation support to localize the distant filled gears. Results show that the system can send the location of a given gear and timely update the number of catches via the mobile application.