Intelligent CIO APAC Issue 23 | Page 64

INTELLIGENT BRANDS // Cabling

Northern Territory of Australia and NEC sign MoU to grow digital capabilities

Northern Territory of Australia , NEC Australia and NEC Corporation have announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding ( MoU ).

The signing will strengthen the NEC and Northern Territory Government partnership to develop a sustainable innovation ecosystem and grow the Territory ’ s digital capabilities . It follows significant private sector investment in subsea fiber optic cable and data center infrastructure .
As part of the MoU , the parties will set out a framework and identify major areas for digital development in the Territory .
This agreement will also allow NEC to explore the use of its world-leading technologies , such as submarine cable systems , Open-RAN 5G , and Artificial Intelligence in the Territory , as well as building industry training opportunities for Territorians .
Michael Gunner , Chief Minister , Northern Territory of Australia , said : “ The Territory has an excellent relationship with NEC , with more than 180 locals employed across the Territory . This signing will see the next steps in place to continue working together to boost the Territory ’ s digital capabilities . Off the back of significant subsea cable and data center infrastructure announcements , the Territory is becoming a global destination for all things digital .”
Takayuki Morita , President and CEO , NEC Corporation , said : “ NEC Corporation is very pleased to be entering this MoU with the Northern Territory Government . The Territory is emerging as a forward-thinking , technology-focused region and we are honored to be working closely with them to build a successful future .”
Mike Mrdak , Executive Chair and CEO , NEC ANZ , said : “ NEC Australia has a long history working in the Northern Territory and we are excited to build on our success in the top end with this unique opportunity . This partnership underpins NEC ’ s vision to support governments who seek to provide citizen services and create a connected future for their people .”
“ We look forward to helping the NT Government create a more connected , sustainable and smart future for the Northern Territory .” p
The partnership cements the Territory ’ s position as Northern Australia ’ s most advanced digital economy and leading tech hub , which will help expand local industry , create new opportunities for businesses and more jobs for Territorians .
As one of the largest employers outside of government in the Territory , NEC Australia consistently contributes to the local economy while also creating new digital career pathways through various developments and mentoring . The company currently employs 187 full-time staff across the Territory .
Growing the digital and tech industries is a key part of the Territory Government ’ s plan to grow the economy to AU $ 40 billion by 2030 and create more jobs .
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