How can local communities gain access to modern digital tools, expertise and European opportunities for development? This was the topic of discussion during an online meeting organised by the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine with the regional CDTOs – the bodies responsible for digital development in the regions.
Mykhailo Leichenko, Director of IT and Analytics at the Centre for Innovation Development, took part in the event. He presented the opportunities offered to communities by the Centre for Innovation Development (CID), as a member of the EDIH Kyiv High Tech consortium; spoke about services relating to digital maturity audits, training, consultancy and the development of digital products; and showcased the Centre’s work in the field of digital passports and community profiles.
These tools, which the CRI team has been actively developing and implementing since 2019, help communities to organise their data, gain a better understanding of their strengths, plan for development, prepare high-quality projects and attract investment and partners with greater confidence.
During the event, the Deputy Minister for Digital Transformation, Oleksandr Zakusylo, presented the Ministry’s key priorities and its vision for the further development of digitalisation in Ukraine. These include the development of the CDTO network as a platform for cooperation between communities and central government bodies to implement effective digital solutions and overcome challenges at local level.
Particular attention was paid to the opportunities offered by the European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) – a European network of digital innovation centres that helps businesses, communities and various organisations to adopt modern technologies, develop digital skills and access expert support.
An important signal was the Ministry of Digital Transformation’s willingness to strengthen cooperation with the EDIH network. Olga Krevska, Deputy Minister for European Integration, emphasised support for the development of hubs and the expansion of cooperation between them, the regions and state institutions.
The event’s moderator, Kateryna Shuvarska, head of the Ministry of Digital Transformation’s regional digitalisation team, also called on regional representatives to make more active use of the EDIH’s capabilities to accelerate digital transformation and the development of local communities.
For local authorities, this means more opportunities to access up-to-date expertise, implement digital solutions and develop. After all, digital transformation is not simply about using technology, but about improving the quality of governance, creating new opportunities for residents and enhancing the competitiveness of the local authority.