Project Management Institute (PMI) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) have signed a collaboration agreement to enhance project governance, implementation and the development of future-ready skills within ITU's global initiatives.

One key area of focus is the enhancement of project governance standards, along with developing capacity and equipping communities with future-ready skills.

PMI and ITU aim to facilitate policy dialogues and foster knowledge sharing and exchange among experts, local and regional government networks, civil society organisations and the private sector, with a particular emphasis on Africa.

The collaboration seeks to address connectivity gaps and unlock opportunities for millions, fostering inclusive and sustainable development.

It also has the potential to transform information and communications technology projects into engines of sustainable development and economic empowerment, particularly in regions where connectivity and digital transformation are critical to unlocking inclusive growth.

“We believe that effective project management is critical to addressing Africa’s unique challenges, particularly the significant connectivity gaps that persist across the region,” said PMI sub-Saharan Africa MD George Asamani.

“With a burgeoning youth population poised to drive the continent’s future, it is essential that projects aimed at bridging these gaps are delivered successfully and on time. Our partnership with ITU will play a pivotal role in equipping stakeholders with the tools and expertise needed to deliver impactful, timely projects that address connectivity challenges and drive meaningful change across Africa.”

“This partnership reinforces our efforts by aligning with the leading authority in project management. By working together, we can ensure that our initiatives remain at the forefront of global best practices, enabling us to deliver projects efficiently, effectively and with lasting impact,” added ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau director Dr Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava.

The partnership directly advances Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: quality education; SDG 9: industry, innovation and infrastructure; and SDG 10: reduced inequalities, by bridging digital divides, fostering resilient infrastructure and creating opportunities for equitable growth.

Strengthening project governance, enhancing implementation and fostering the development of future-ready skills will contribute to laying a solid foundation for accelerated progress.

The collaboration, which will remain in force through 2025, underscores the critical role of partnerships in strengthening project governance and fostering knowledge exchange.

“With strategic investments and effective governance, this partnership is poised to bridge Africa’s digital divide, delivering transformative projects that expand access to education, healthcare and economic opportunities. PMI and ITU are driving sustainable and inclusive growth for millions, setting a benchmark for impactful collaboration in the region,” said Asamani.

“Together, we aim to drive the skills development and policy dialogue needed to ensure these transformative initiatives deliver sustainable and inclusive growth for the region.”