Today, May 16, marks Day 2 of the National ICT Day celebration in Luganville, Santo.

This year is the 4th edition of ICT Day and also the first time the event is being held in Luganville. The theme, “Drivers to Innovation,” aligns with both the World Telecommunication and Information Society Day and the 150th anniversary of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

The celebrations began yesterday with a vibrant parade led by the Vanuatu Mobile Force (VMF), starting from the Unity Shell area and ending at La Plage Park in Luganville.

Among the distinguished guests were Hon. MP Kalfau Moli, Hon. MP Alfred Maoh, Sanma Province Secretary General Mr. Sakariah Daniel, Anglican Bishop James Ligo, and Port Vila Municipal Clerk Mr. Toko Mara.

Mr. Daniel welcomed participants and booth holders to the shores of Sanma, followed by an opening prayer from Bishop Ligo. Hon. MP Maoh and Hon. MP Moli then addressed the gathering, reflecting on the evolution of technology and its growing importance in our daily lives.

Following their booth tours, stage activities kicked off with panel discussions, musical entertainment, quizzes, prizes, and continued booth showcases that highlighted innovations and applications in the ICT sector.

The event attracted a large number of participants who engaged in discussions and visited booths. It proved to be highly educational for students, teachers, and professionals. Attendance is expected to grow even more today.

Panel sessions have so far focused on the role of ICT in education, tourism, agriculture, youth development, health, and disaster response—especially in the context of Tropical Cyclone Pam. Topics also included climate change, ports and harbors, and telecommunications services. These discussions will continue throughout the day.

Today’s sessions will also address how ICT can be used to support youth empowerment, persons with disabilities, and healthy living. A key highlight of the day is Telecom Vanuatu Limited’s launch of its new fiber-optic link in Luganville, marking a significant step forward in connectivity for the northern region.