Today we are celebrating the World Telecommunication and Information Society Day. The day helps raise awareness of the possibilities that the use of the Internet and other information and communication technologies (ICT) can bring to societies and economies, as well as of ways to bridge the digital divide.
The World Telecommunication and Information Society Day marks the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention and the creation of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
Celebrated every year on 17 May as World Telecommunications Day since 1969 and World Information Society Day since 2005, it became World Telecommunication and Information Society Day in 2006. ITU member states are invited to celebrate the day annually by organizing appropriate national initiatives.
This year’s Telecommunication and Information Society Day focuses on ICTs and improving road safety.
Technology-related driver distraction and road-user behaviour, which includes “text messaging” and interfacing with in-vehicle navigation or communication systems while driving, are among the leading contributors to road traffic fatalities and injuries.
ICT should enhance road safety and traffic management systems, eliminate unsafe technology-related distractions while driving, promote the development and use of safe user interfaces in vehicles and develop Intelligent Transport Systems to improve the safety, management and efficiency of terrestrial transport, while reducing its environmental impact.
Also, did you know that telecoms and ICT will soon help cars automatically dial emergency services in case of serious accidents?
Read this article in Slovene
