The Suva City Council is embarking on a significant five-year plan to transform Suva into a smart city, according to IT specialist Albert Wong. This initiative was discussed during a visit by a Fiji delegation to the “Digital Culture Construction for Belt and Road Countries” seminar in Beijing. Mr. Wong emphasized the importance of adapting advanced technologies observed in China to suit Fiji’s needs, indicating that understanding this technological advancement is crucial as Fiji begins its digital transformation journey.
He highlighted the conclusion of the first phase of the digital transformation strategy in Suva, which includes ongoing efforts to implement smart parking and other innovative applications. Mr. Wong expressed enthusiasm for learning from China’s extensive experience in integrating technology into everyday life and hopes to tailor these insights for effective implementation in Fiji.
The seminar is part of the broader Chinese government’s Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to foster cooperation and development among 144 countries, particularly aiding developing nations like Fiji in their quest for progress. Wong was selected to represent Fiji by the Chinese Embassy and the Chinese Cultural Centre, underscoring the significance of this collaboration.
In previous related articles, it has been reported that there is a growing commitment from the Suva City Council to digital initiatives, led by special administrators like Tevita Boseiwaqa, who noted the potential for enhanced service delivery through digital platforms. This synergy between various stakeholders indicates a collective effort toward adopting modern technologies, reflecting a positive outlook for Fiji’s future as it aims to improve efficiency and responsiveness in governance.
This ambitious plan not only positions Fiji to harness advancements in technology and cooperation but also holds the promise of significant improvements in the quality of life for its citizens. By learning from established models like China’s, Fiji is on a hopeful trajectory towards becoming a smart, digitally integrated city.
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