WHAT IS ICT?

A combination of Information Technology and Communication Technology

ICT was coined as a result of the need to bridge the two technologies.

Computers need to communicate (transfer data) with each other, we cannot provide an independent transmission line, hence the need to use the existing telecoms links.

Information Technology (IT)

IT is any thing that has to do with computers. Basically it is about the collection and processing of data to form useful information. It can be classified into two broad areas and a new emerging area

1. Hardware

2. Software

3. Service Management (new area)

Communication Technology 

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Communication Technology has to do with the transmission of voice and data. The means of transmission is via the transmission line.

Transmission lines can be wired or wireless such as transmission cables(UTP, coaxial, fiber), microwave radio, VSAT, GPRS,

CHALLENGES

Today ICT has permeated the whole world economy. No ICT no business. Everyone use the computer and or phone one way or the other

Offices and schools now make the use of computers compulsory.  Yesterday’s tailors and seamstresses are now fashion designers

One obvious gains of ICT to the entire world is the digitisation and computerisation of virtually every activities which make the implementation very realisable and easily achievable.

BENEFITS

Ease of communication – email, phone, chat, fax, document attachment, contacting people online

Easy access to information, search engines, online libraries etc

Personal self development – Researches, on-line seminars and conferences (webinars)

DANGERS

Data and information loss due to virus, hacking etc

The internet is an unregulated sector which contains many dangerous websites full of virus, pornography, bad “islamic” websites

Exposure to fraud, scams and information interception via emails and text messages.

Identify theft and phishing.

Tips for the use of internet

Use the good aspects of the internet 

Do not visit prohibited sites

Do not waste your time especially on online chatting

Visit recommended islamic websites regularly and seek scholars advice on opinions you come across

Avoid responding to unsolicited mails from unknown senders (same goes for phone calls)

CONCLUSION

The world of ICT is no doubt a major challenge for us as an an Africans. It is imperative that we develop and be in control of what will be useful to us and guard against harmful external aggression.