e) Encourage the development, exploitation and protection of intellectual property rights (IPRs) in the ICT sector; f) Facilitate R&D in ICTs through appropriate funding schemes; and g) Grant Special Economic Zone status to Technology Parks. 10.6 Policy Statement: ICT Private Sector Participation The ubiquitous presence of science and technology across advanced societies has been transforming the nature of work and life in dramatic ways. The Government of Zimbabwe intends to create an enabling environment for the organised export of home-grown intellectual talent resources through the provision of ICT productivity service centres through automation and integration systems. In addition to being a high-value commodity in media and education, knowledge now permeates modes of production for extraction and accumulation of value through the following: a) Support private sector growth and investment in ICT skills training. b) Continuously promote active participation of private sector in ICT policy implementation. c) Fit of ICT policy programs with private sector business plans so that funding and implementation of policy is executed through the normal course of business. This will reduce separate and additional funding from Government to implement some of the policies. 10.7 Policy Statement: Radio Frequency Spectrum Management Radio frequency spectrum is a scarce public resource that goes to waste if not used optimally. The frequency spectrum will, therefore, be managed in line with public policy objectives, with a view to making it available to all users under specific and clear conditions. This process will maintain a balance between the public and private interest. In the event of conflict, public interest shall prevail. The following Policy Statements address the nation’s objectives on radio frequency spectrum management. a) Radio Frequency Spectrum Planning, Allocation and Assignment:The radio frequency spectrum will be planned, allocated and assigned in an optimal manner. Measures will be put in place to ensure that the radio systems are implemented within a reasonable period and radio frequencies are efficiently utilised. The allocation of frequencies to radio services will be done by POTRAZ. b) Radio Frequency Spectrum Sharing:Radio frequency spectrum sharing among various services and users will be encouraged in order to satisfy the growing needs for spectrum resources. Where safety of life, service levels or the public interest may be compromised, the requirement to share spectrum will not apply. 27