The digital transformation of Cyprus, following the example of countries such as Estonia, were discussed at the Digital Agenda Cyprus Summit 2024, taking place on Wednesday at the Nicosia Municipal Theatre.

Keynote speakers presented aspects of the way towards transformation, explaining how this was achieved. 

In his address, Former Prime Minister of Estonia, Taavi Roivas, presented Estonia’s road map towards digitalization, lessons learned, and benefits reaped. 

Roivas pointed out –among other things– that "small countries like ours should not just cope with the digital transformation, but we should be leading the way, because we can be more agile, we can be faster, and this can make us role models for the for the whole world". The preconditions, as he said, are digital mindset and fast Internet connection.

"In Estonia we were pioneers in digital signature and introduced it a long time ago. It needs to be safer than most of the bank cards because your identity is worth more than your wallet," he added. 

Mayor of Nicosia, Charalambos Prountzos, said in his address that "our goal is not merely to digitise services, but to enhance the quality of life for all citizens." He also introduced two new branded initiatives that lead towards Nicosia's digital transformation. The first one is the Novoville Citizen Relation Management app, which is "the real-time citizens tool for customer service, filing of complaints, conducting polls, and informing about calendar events in the city."

The second one, Nicosia Together, Prountzos pointed out, "is essentially a one stop shop community engagement platform that connects residents and local organisations with contribution opportunities that align with their skills, passions and expertise." Through Nicosia Together, he added, "private individuals, companies, NGOs and public bodies can contribute to the system to society in five areas, environment, social cohesion, emergency and disaster relief, cultural events and economic development." 

"The Municipality of Nicosia, as the driver and key founder of CYENS, the Centre of Excellence in Research and Innovation, is driving the digital transformation of local governance and services," Nicosia Mayor said. "With its multidisciplinary teams and international collaborations, CYENS accelerates the adoption of digital technologies in sectors like Digital Twins, healthcare, education, cultural heritage and more," he added. "This has the potential to create a more connected, efficient and responsive city, improving and supporting public services and promoting a sustainable environment," he said. 

On his part, CEO of SPP Media, Demetris Lottides, presented the issues that would be discussed during the Digital Agenda Cyprus Summit, such as "digital democracy, AI, talent management, creativity, innovation, regulation, media, holograms, the changes in our lives, the progress of our country, the future of our world." 

"Living in unstable and changing times, we have to be positive about the future of humanity. We are excited about the prospects of our country," he concluded. 

The speeches were followed by panels of speakers who analysed aspects of digital transformation.