The launch of this initiative marks a major step forward for Hong Kong in the assessment of basic IT skills to align with internationally recognised standards. As we enter into the Information Age, our enterprises are facing more and more challenges posed by the continuous revolution in information technology. We have to find ways to turn these challenges into opportunities or we may risk lagging behind in a trend that will substantially change the face of the entire world. IT is now used as a tool in almost every aspect of business activities, from simple usage of word processing, spreadsheets, e-mails to complex enterprise database systems, computer aided design applications, etc.
Companies well recognise IT as a key enabler of competitiveness.
In a few years' time, e-business will just be normal business. The Government is well aware of the need to equip our people with IT skills. The tertiary institutions, Vocational Training Council and other private training institutes are providing IT related training at different levels. I am chairing a Task Force on IT Manpower to examine measures to enhance IT manpower supply in Hong Kong. One of the subjects we are focusing on is how to facilitate the establishment of an accreditation system for IT courses at sub-degree level and below.