International Seminar on Digital Inclusion Discusses Pathways to Universal Connectivity
By Secom / Serint
The Brazilian Federal Court of Accounts (TCU), through its Audit Department for Telecommunications (AudCommunications), held an International Seminar on Digital Inclusion on September 23 24. The event brought together subject matter experts, representatives from government, the private sector, NGOs, civil society, and the TCU to discuss strategies for achieving digital inclusion and ensuring universal and meaningful connectivity.
In addition to the panelists and registered participants, the seminar was attended by the President of the TCU, Minister Vital do Rêgo, and TCU Ministers Aroldo Cedraz one of the seminar's main proponents and Augusto Nardes. Over the two days, discussions extended beyond technology, highlighting the struggles of the digitally excluded and the challenges faced by millions of Brazilians who still lack access to the internet or digital tools. The debates also underscored the joint efforts of the public and private sectors to address digital exclusion, a problem that directly impacts the country's social and economic development.
In his opening remarks, Minister Aroldo Cedraz, who was not only one of the proponents of the seminar but also rapporteur for the case evaluating Brazil's digital inclusion policies (Case No. 039.324/2023-0) stressed that connectivity is a key component of national infrastructure. Being present in the digital world is essential for the full exercise of citizenship. It allows individuals to access information about their rights, duties, and essential public services , he stated.
The President of the TCU, Minister Vital do Rêgo, endorsed Cedraz's initiative and suggested that the discussions held during the two-day event be forwarded to the Interministerial Working Group developing the National Digital Inclusion Plan (PNID) and to the Presidents of both Houses of Congress.
It is only through such coordinated action that the resources and measures required for the Plan's implementation can be secured. Digital exclusion is a pressing challenge. We cannot allow millions of Brazilians to remain on the sidelines of the technological revolution that is changing the world. May this seminar generate ideas, reflections, proposals, and commitments that will help turn meaningful connectivity into a reality for all , emphasized Minister Vital.
Panels: Vision and Actions from Different Sectors to Tackle Digital Exclusion
The seminar's program was designed to cover an array of topics. Featuring seven thematic panels, three keynotes, and an opening address delivered by Minister Aroldo Cedraz, the event fostered debates on issues such as expanding internet access in remote areas, the importance of digital literacy, and the public policies needed to make digital inclusion a reality for everyone. The sessions also showcased successful initiatives and discussed the remaining obstacles to achieving universal connectivity.
The International Seminar on Digital Inclusion served as a forum to present the vision and actions of multiple sectors in tackling digital inequality. Panels and keynotes included Q&A sessions with the in-person audience as well as with those who attended online, ensuring a comprehensive discussion of the topic.
A summary of the activities is available on the TCU Portal, and full recordings can be viewed on the Court's YouTube channel via the links below.
Day 1 September 23
Full opening session and morning panels Watch here
Full afternoon panels Watch here
Day 2 September 24
Full morning panels Watch here
Full afternoon panels Watch here