Find Computing and Office Supplies expertise in Seychelles

PC penetration is relatively high in Seychelles compared to surrounding countries, according to the International Telecommunication Union. In 2010, 37.8% of households owned a computer and 26.1% of households had internet access (ITU-D, 2010). In 2012 there were a total of 38,854 internet users in Seychelles, representing 43.2% of the population. The World Economic Forum Global Competitiveness Report 2012-13 rates Seychelles as 65 out of 144 countries for internet penetration. Approximately 8.9% of the population have broadband subscriptions, giving Seychelles a rating of 59 out of 144 countries (WEF, 2013). In 2012 there were 27,600 Facebook subscribers in the country, representing 30.7% of the total population (Internet World Stats, 2012).

There are 18 computer and office supply companies in Seychelles. The most well established local computing company is VCS Ltd. VCS offers ICT consultancy, as well as hardware and software sales. Smaller computing companies include Global Computer Consultants and Fouhan Data systems, both offering repair services and computer related sales.

The leading Caribbean telecommunications company Cable and Wireless Communications (CWC) also known as LIME, serves communities within Seychelles.  CWC offers complete telecommunications packages, as well as providing support and advice to businesses and consumers throughout the island.

The Department of Information Communications Technology is a government institution in Seychelles with strategic plans to develop the ICT industry of the islands. In 2013 the government had on-going plans including the modernisation of the national ICT policies, further investment in ICT infrastructure and a focus on increasing residential PC and internet access. From 2009 the University of Seychelles began offering several options for students wishing to study computing, including degrees and foundation programmes. Computing courses offer the potential of widening citizens’ understanding of the technological market and improving job prospects.

Seychelles is a small island state with the characteristics of a middle income country. The World Economic Forum Global Competitiveness Report 2012-13 rates Seychelles as 67 out of 144 countries for the availability of the latest technologies, giving the country a total score of 5 out of 7, with 7 being the most advanced. Firm level technology absorption has a similar rating of 51 out of 144 and 5.1 out of 7, with government procurement of advanced technological products having an equally notable score of 38 and 3.9. Seychelles results for the Global Competitiveness Report are comparatively higher than many surrounding countries.