1.3 Definition of Information and Communication Technology Information and communication technology (ICT) is the convergence of communications, computing and information technologies. This convergence has resulted in the development of new and improved services delivered over a diverse range of technological platforms. Today, ICT encompasses telecommunications - fixed and wireless, broadcasting, multi-media, software development, electronic publishing, information storage and retrieval, email, distance learning, telemedicine, postal services, electronic commerce, the Internet and much more. In the years to come, we can anticipate an ever-expanding cornucopia of ICT products and services that will continually transform our lives and the world in which we live. 1.4 The Importance of ICT ICTs can have a wizard effect on speeding the development process of the country. ICTs make it possible to deliver information by means of voice, text, data, video and graphics faster and more efficiently than before. Furthermore, the constantly evolving range and quality of ICT delivery platforms is improving the availability and affordability of accessing of information. These developments provide an enabling environment for Government to work with the private sector and civil society to improve and expand access to information for all its citizens. For example, ICTs can be used to reduce inequalities among the sexes, by providing women with greater access to meaningful information. They can also be used to improve the lives of the disabled with technologies that enable the deaf to communicate more effectively with the hearing world and the physically immobilised to study and work from home through the Internet. Telemedicine applications can save lives in rural areas by speeding diagnosis and treatment for the isolated. Distance education provides an inexpensive and effective means of developing the human resource capacity throughout the country. E-Government services improve access to and knowledge of Government services as well as provide a vehicle for strengthening democracy. ICT Policy for Lesotho 13