Mauritius, often recognized as "Africa's best development success story," has transformed from a monocrop economy to a diverse, technologically advanced nation, driven by significant investments in education and technology. Despite progress, challenges like unemployment and educational disparities remain, which the government addresses through educational reforms and increased digitalization.
Economic growth since independence faces recent challenges intensified by the pandemic, prompting a strategic refocus on ICT for resilience. The education system, influenced by British colonial roots, spans pre-primary to tertiary levels, with significant advancements like universal secondary and fee-free tertiary education, increasingly integrating technology to improve quality and accessibility.
Mauritius boasts high broadband and mobile phone penetration, affordable internet, and a liberalized telecommunications sector, supporting a robust digital economy. The Digital Government Transformation Strategy aims for a SMART island by 2030, with comprehensive educational reforms and ICT integration. This integration is central to its strategy, enhancing infrastructure, digital content, and professional development. Schools and higher education institutions are equipped with modern ICT facilities, supported by the Government Online Centre. Polytechnics offer ICT-focused diplomas to bridge skill gaps.
Efforts to bridge the digital divide focus among other things on inclusive education and lifelong learning through Open Distance Learning (ODL), enhancing access and quality for all learners.