Page 50 - Implementing ITU-T International Standards to Shape Smart Sustainable Cities: The Case of Singapore

Implementing ITU-T International Standards to Shape Smart Sustainable Cities –
The Case of Singapore

4.1.4. Equity and social inclusion

The KPIs within this domain focus on the themes of openness, public participation and
governance. These KPIs also proved to be challenging to collect. However, data did indicate that
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in terms of digital inclusion, Singapore has well-developed plans to bridge the digital divide.
Notable examples of such initiatives include iBEGIN and iLIVE that offer customised curricula for
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senior citizens to learn basic infocomm and digital lifestyle skills respectively.
Singapore has also made significant progress in developing a framework enabling the creation
of open data platforms for public and private sector use. Such platforms lay the groundwork for
more transparent and more efficient governance.

Suggested action for other aspiring
Measures adopted by Singapore smart sustainable cities
(based on Singapore’s experience)
Singapore has implemented a number of public City stakeholders are encouraged to use various
programmes targeted at those who need tools and polices to reach those left behind in the
assistance (including senior citizens and disabled digital divide. These policies should focus on
individuals) to be able to access digital services senior citizens, disabled individuals and the
from the government. economically disadvantaged to raise their digital
skills and make the delivery of government
services electronically possible.

Further actions needed for Singapore and other aspiring smart sustainable cities

Citizen Satisfaction

Some cities have adopted measures for increasing public participation in urban
administration activities. Despite such initiatives, citizens may still hold a feeling of
dissatisfaction about their involvement in urban operations and decision making. In
such situations, cities should adopt policies, frameworks and initiatives to generate a
feeling of social inclusion.

Note: Singapore agencies consult citizens regularly on policies, regulations and conduct
focus group discussions to test and validate our services before rolling them out fully.
While agencies can proceed with their own engagement, REACH serves an agency
facilitating whole-of-government efforts to engage and connect with Singaporeans on
national and social issues. Ministries and agencies will post their public consultation
paper on REACH portal and/or their own websites for public comments.

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As envisioned in Goal 2 “Inclusiveness” of the Connect 2020 Agenda.
36 Infocomm Media Development Authority, Singapore:
https://www.imda.gov.sg/community/consumer-education/digital-inclusion/silver-infocomm-
initiative/silver-infocomm-curriculum

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