Riyadh - eMedia:
H.E. the Minister of Communications and Information Technology Eng. Mohamed Jamil Mulla signed yesterday at  King Abdul Aziz Telecommunications Complex in Riyadh two contracts for the execution of e-training caravans  and  the dissemination of digital culture and knowledge. 
The e-training caravans project was signed with SAC For Training and Consulting, while the contract for the dissemination of digital culture and knowledge was signed with Mayadin For Training and Development.
In press statements following the ceremony, H.E. the minister praised the close cooperation between the public and private sectors for achieving the objectives of the National Communications and Information Technology Plan (NCITP). He noted that the signing of these contracts come within the framework of MCIT’s conviction that the private sector is a key partner in implementation of the national development plans. The sector is also an integral part of the national economy components, he pointed out.
The parties which will execute these projects are major national establishments in their field and they have been selected following public tenders. The work would be carried out by Saudi cadres, he stressed.
The minister explained that MCIT execution of e-training caravans and the dissemination of digital culture and knowledge is part of the Ministry’s contribution in the realization of the fifth objective of NCITP. This objective includes projects aiming at eliminating computer illiteracy, providing all possible support to enable different society segments around the Kingdom to actively use information and communications technologies, raising awareness on the importance of these technologies in a way that contributes in bridging the digital gap and pave the environment for shifting to a knowledge society focusing on rural and remote areas.
H.E. the minister noted that preparations of training classes and necessary equipment for e-training caravans will begin during the current first school semester. He added that the project consists of three key phases. The first phase will take one year, while the second and third phases will take two years each, he said.  He added that the project is to be carried out in coordination with the Ministry of Education and other government departments.
The project for the dissemination of digital culture and knowledge will start during the current first school semester through lectures to be held in the Kingdom’s thirteen regions in addition to other main cities like Jeddah and Taif. This project aims at enhancing g the use of ICT by the different society members with all their segments and educational backgrounds focusing on youth, the minister added. He said the project also aims at the spread of awareness among the targeted group. Most of the lectures will be held in coordination with the ministry of Education and Saudi universities.
Concluding his statements, the minister explained that MCIT role in these projects is a partner and contributor to what other several government agencies are doing; namely the ministries of Education and Culture and Information, the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation and other public and private education and training institutions. The minister praised the significant role being played by the electronic and print media in highlighting and disseminating these initiatives and projects. He prayed to Allah the Almighty to give success to all parties involved in these projects.