As evidenced by the e-readiness survey results, access to the Internet, remains particularly low. Outside of the capital city, there are few access points and even in academia, students rarely have access to computers. In respect of re-branding the national image of Sierra Leone, the lack of positive content and culturally sensitive information have permitted negative foreign connotations on the national image, many of which are related to the concluded war such as seen in the film Blood Diamonds. 3-3 Key Strategic Issues from the Vision 2025 The Vision 2025 for Sierra Leone embodies the aspirations of Sierra Leoneans for the year 2025. This shared national vision is expressed as follows: “UNITED PEOPLE, PROGRESSIVE NATION, ATTRACTIVE COUNTRY”. It also identifies six strategic issues that must be confronted to attain the national vision by 2025. Table 3: Key Strategic Issues for Attainment of National Vision 1. How to attain a competitive private sector-led economy with effective indigenous participation; 2. How to create a high quality of life for all Sierra Leoneans; 3. How to build a well educated and enlightened society; 4. How to create a tolerant, stable, secure and well managed society based on democratic values; 5. How to ensure sustainable exploitation and effective utilization of our natural resources, while maintaining a healthy environment; 6. How to become a science and technology driven nation. Section six of the Vision 2025 Plan references technology with the following specific objectives: 3-4 • Encourage and improve the teaching of science and technology at all levels of education; • Improve science and technology to increase productivity in all sectors of the economy, including the informal sector; and • Improve the use of science and technology to facilitate decision-making at all levels of society. The SL-PRSP II (Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper) The Government of Sierra Leone in its second Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper has identified four strategic priorities for national development: ICT Policy of Sierra Leone Page 14 / 63

Select target paragraph3