Intel is looking to participate further in the advancement of the digital society, as SA continues to become more technologically advanced.
This is according to Intel chairman Craig Barrett, who was speaking at Intel`s "Evolve: South Africa" event in Sandton yesterday.
"Although SA continues to go digital, a lot still needs to be done in terms of accelerating the growth of the digital society."
He said Intel has already started talks with Telkom and the State IT Agency about the capabilities of WiMax technology and how it can be used to penetrate hard-to-reach rural areas.
He demonstrated how WiMax would be able to provide wireless connectivity between Johannesburg and Pretoria, covering a 50km distance.
Barrett cited reports that found in terms of e-readiness, SA is ranked number 32 in the world.
He also highlighted a number of initiatives undertaken locally: "SA has embraced the use of video conferencing technology in schools, the local wine market is able to compete globally because of technology applications, and telemedicine technology is growing, enabling doctors to treat patients even if they are 500km apart."
Medical Research Council director, Moretlo Molefi, said telemedicine has a potential to bridge the digital divide. "With 3800 clinics in SA that have no doctors, patients in rural areas can be treated without having to travel to big hospitals. We are also hoping that telemedicine technology will penetrate most parts of Africa."
Businesses also have a big role to play, Barrett noted. "For any business that wishes to compete globally, it needs to make use of technologies, but above all the government needs to be the role model and leader by embracing technology."
He said SA should adopt the "three pillars" as part of designing the digital society: e-citizen, e-government and e-business. Collaboration will create a digital SA, and benefit the economy as well as its people, he added.
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