Republic of Cyprus Second Voluntary National Report - Sustainable development goals

29 Focus areas I. DIGITALISATION Digital Transformation In today’s world, digitalisation is an essential tool for stimulating sustainable growth and vibrant economic activity. By establishing the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy (DMRID), Cyprus aims to boost the digital transformation of the country, covering a wide range of technological, economic and societal innovations. The challenges created by the Covid-19 pandemic forced Cyprus to accelerate its digitalisation efforts, both in the public and private spheres of the economy. Currently, Cyprus ranks 13 th among EU member states in terms of its research and innovation performance, and is among the last member states in digital economy. Nonetheless, the country shows an outstanding performance in the per capita absorption of EU funds for research and innovation. This significant progress is reflected in the overall implementation level of SDG9 that moved from a low average of less than 40% in 2017 to 72% in 2020, marking the biggest progress made by Cyprus in all SDGs. With the adoption of the National Digital Strategy, Cyprus aims to become a fit-for- the-future society and knowledge-based economy enabled by digital and emerging technologies that will drive economic prosperity and competitiveness and position the country as a resilient player in the European digital economy and a regional science and high-tech hub (SDG9). Cyprus is making progress in deploying very high-capacity networks by boosting its coverage of very high-speed networks through increasing digital awareness, implementing the new National Broadband Plan, and expanding Very High-Capacity Networks in underserved areas. The improvement of the quality of life of citizens through digitalisation and the use of advanced technologies is the main focus of a planned Smart City strategy. The DMRID will supervise its implementation and, together with all stakeholders involved, make sure that all necessary reforms in the legal and regulatory framework are enabled. The Deputy Ministry will undertake the responsibility of centrally leading and implementing certain smart city projects at national level. At the present time, the three priorities, as indicated by the main municipalities of Cyprus are smart parking, smart lighting and smart waste collection management solutions. E-Government and e-Skills The development of the e-Skills Action Plan includes a set of reforms and initiatives aimed at enhancing the digital skills of our current and future workforce, as well as the general population. It includes actions geared towards the integration of digital skills in the educational system and the alignment of educational curricula with industry needs, the upskilling and reskilling of the public and private workforce, from basic to advanced ICT skills, the development of a digitally skilled society, as well as the promotion of a culture of life-long learning and innovation. Enabling a well-functioning, capable and resilient national public health ICT system is not only a top priority but a necessary condition for the normal functioning of the country’s public health services. II. INNOVATION Research and Innovation The National Research and Innovation Governance System, as adopted in October 2018, has led to the establishment of new institutions and bodies, such as the National Boards for Research and Innovation, the Chief Scientist and the Committee of Ministry Research and Innovation Coordinators. As of March 2020, Research and Innovation related issues