Latest news with #digitalfuture
Forbes
6 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
How The Protocol Stack Is Reshaping Software Distribution
Wesley is the CEO of FPBlock, helping clients with the latest techniques in functional programming, cloud, DevOps and containerization. In 2008, the App Store changed everything. It gave developers a storefront, users a single portal and platforms a 30% cut on the digital future. For a while, it worked. Developers got distribution. Users got convenience. Platforms got rich. But somewhere along the way, we forgot the internet wasn't meant to be a mall. It was meant to be a commons. Today, a new shift is underway. The future might not lie in apps bundled inside walled gardens. It may instead lie in protocols: composable, permissionless and potentially transformative. The age of the app store could be giving way to the era of the protocol stack. The Myth Of The Magical Middleman For 15 years, builders chased one dream: get featured, get downloaded, get paid. But that dream came with a leash. App stores define what you can build, discovery engines throttle your reach and payment rails dictate your business model. One policy update, one guideline change, and you could be out. This isn't just centralization. It starts to resemble digital feudalism where developers rent land from platform kings. And like all empires, the tax rarely goes down. Permissionless Protocols Protocols function independently. They don't require approval, take a share of revenue or interfere with your monetization strategy. They simply provide the infrastructure to support your application or service. Sign-in with Ethereum, for instance, offers a new approach to authentication, eliminating the need for usernames, passwords or reset links. For communication, XMTP isn't a messaging app, but a protocol that enables secure communication between wallets. Identity, too, is being reimagined. ENS goes beyond domain name assignment; it provides a persistent, portable identity across the web. These aren't apps in the traditional sense. They are building blocks. When combined thoughtfully, they can reduce dependence on centralized platforms and give developers the chance to become platforms themselves. Stack Over Store The app store model is vertically integrated. It tries to control every layer—user experience, data, payments, identity and distribution. The protocol stack takes a different approach. It's horizontally composable. Developers can combine and swap layers as needed. A protocol-powered application might use ENS or Farcaster for identity. It could rely on XMTP or Waku for messaging, and USDC or Superfluid for payments. For storage, it might use IPFS, Arweave or Ceramic. Logic is handled through smart contracts on the chain of your choice. No permission required. Just composition. The Protocol Stack Defined Think of it as a collection of decentralized infrastructure layers. Each one handles a basic internet function—identity, messaging, payments, storage or logic. Developers can assemble these layers to build applications without needing to rely on centralized marketplaces. Instead of a monolithic app owned by a single company, users interact with a network of open protocols. These components are interoperable, modular and often resilient to deplatforming. How Users Discover And Use These Apps Users access protocol-based experiences through wallet-enabled browsers like MetaMask and Rabby, or through services like WalletConnect. Social interfaces such as Farcaster and Lens create spaces for discovery. Aggregators organize and present protocol-enabled frontends. In this environment, distribution doesn't depend on app store ranking but on integration and network relevance. What Builders Need To build on this stack, developers need software development kits from decentralized protocols. They'll also need access to on-chain storage and reliable RPC infrastructure. Smart contract knowledge and frontend integration skills are essential, too. The tools are still maturing, and onboarding remains a hurdle, but the foundational pieces are there. Real-World Adoption Some early adopters are already showing what's possible. Farcaster uses multiple protocols to create decentralized social interactions. Its "frames" system works across different clients and interfaces. Zora focuses on NFT minting and marketplaces with minimal platform friction, offering infrastructure rather than a traditional app. Uniswap, working in tandem with WalletConnect, enables billions in transaction volume through its composable DeFi protocols. These examples show progress, though the trend is still early. Why This Might Win Protocols offer several advantages. They are difficult to deplatform. Builders can compose rather than start from scratch. Many protocols are designed to be multiplayer from the start, which helps generate organic network effects. Most importantly, distribution is no longer controlled by a central store. It happens wherever the protocol is integrated. This isn't just about open-source software. It's about shared state, persistent infrastructure and a foundation for new forms of collaboration. What This Means • For Builders: Start by integrating existing protocols like XMTP or ENS. Don't aim to build super apps. Focus instead on interfaces that highlight what these protocols can do. Be ready for growing pains—documentation is inconsistent, and the developer experience still needs refinement. • For Users: There will be friction at first. But over time, expect smoother experiences. Your digital identity and assets could soon move seamlessly between platforms. That brings more freedom and also more responsibility. • For Investors: Rethink platform-dependent apps. Look for teams that understand how to build with protocols instead of around them. The next big winner may not be a company. It might be an open protocol with a thriving developer community. A Chapter, Not The Whole Story App stores made discovery easier, but they also introduced new dependencies. The protocol stack offers a different model. Not a magic solution, but one that aligns more closely with the open nature of the web. The teams building it aren't waiting for permission. They're working in public. The tools are early, the audience is still small, but the direction deserves attention. Not because it promises success. But because it brings back the freedom to try. Forbes Technology Council is an invitation-only community for world-class CIOs, CTOs and technology executives. Do I qualify?
Mail & Guardian
10-07-2025
- Business
- Mail & Guardian
Bridging the skills gap in South Africa starts with reimagining its approach to education
As the world hurtles toward a more digital, automated and interconnected future, the question that should be on our minds as a nation is – 'Are graduates being adequately prepared with the right skills to survive and thrive, now and in the future?' According to the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025, employers anticipate that 39% of core skills required in the job market will change by 2030. Technological proficiencies such as AI and big data, networks and cybersecurity, and technological literacy are projected to see rapid growth in demand. Human skills like creative thinking, resilience, flexibility, curiosity, social influence and environmental stewardship are also expected to rise in importance, underlining the importance of thinking about the increasing rise of AI in terms of a human-in-the-loop approach. 'Most universities are still largely geared toward traditional academic disciplines and theoretical learning, and while these remain important, they don't always translate into employability. What's needed is a mindset shift, from qualification-first thinking to skills-first education,' says Dr. Gill Mooney, Dean Academic Development and Support at The IIE, including Varsity College and Vega, educational brands of the Independent Institute of Education (The IIE). To bridge this growing gap between what the world of work demands and what education currently provides, South Africa must urgently reassess how and what is being taught in classrooms and lecture theatres alike. A future-focused education system can no longer be built solely on rote learning, or memorisation and limited application of theoretical knowledge, but must equip young people with the skills to think critically, adapt quickly and engage meaningfully, particularly in uncertain and rapidly evolving environments. Analytical thinking, resilience and emotional intelligence are no longer 'nice-to-haves', but are the very qualities employers now prioritise alongside technical skills like data literacy, AI proficiency and digital communication. Yet, in a country where youth unemployment remains stubbornly high and nearly half of 15- to 24-year-olds are not in employment, education or training (NEET), too many young South Africans are still entering the job market underprepared. This is not a problem unique to South Africa, but it is one that must be tackled head-on, says Mooney. 'It requires a shift in the philosophy of teaching itself. That means moving from qualification-first models to skills-first thinking, where knowledge is contextualised, debated and applied. It means placing more value on curiosity, creativity and problem-solving than on reproducing and applying facts in limited contexts.' Some local institutions have started responding to this challenge by reimagining what higher education looks like. For example, the IIE's teaching models across its campuses — including IIE Varsity College, IIE Vega and IIE MSA — are being adapted to centre learning on dialogue, engagement and real-world problem-solving. Students are encouraged to explore multiple perspectives and to test theory through diverse applications, whether in collaborative projects, simulated work environments or industry engagements. 'We must move from simply transmitting knowledge to fostering the kind of thinking that allows students to navigate ambiguity, work effectively in teams and continue learning long after graduation,' says Mooney. In a labour market where change is the only constant, South Africa's education system must evolve from producing graduates with more theoretical knowledge, to producing graduates who can adapt, lead and create, in order to build a more inclusive, resilient and future-ready workforce.
Malay Mail
11-06-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
‘Malaysia is open for innovation': Gobind woos UK tech investors in London
KUALA LUMPUR, June 11 — Malaysia has called on the United Kingdom (UK) technology businesses to join hands in building a dynamic digital future in the country. Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, speaking at the UK-Malaysia Digital Gateway Forum in London, also positioned Malaysia as a regional powerhouse for innovation, digital investment, and sustainable technology development. 'Malaysia is open for innovation. Our vision is anchored on three critical enablers—world-class infrastructure, trusted data governance, and institutional trust. 'These are the foundations that make Malaysia a prime destination for high-value tech investment in the region,' he said in a statement today. Gobind is currently in London for London Tech Week, which also serves as a valuable platform for Malaysia to gain insights and forge partnerships in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence (AI) governance, smart cities, and digital sustainability. At the forum, he reiterated Malaysia's commitment to becoming a thriving, future-ready digital hub that welcomes international partnerships and is poised for high-value, sustainable growth. He cited Malaysia's strong digital growth trajectory, highlighting robust investment figures from the first quarter of 2025. 'During this period, 107 new companies were approved under the Malaysia Digital framework, representing a combined investment value of RM13.1 billion (GBP2.3 billion). 'These investments are expected to generate 4,199 new jobs over the next five years,' he said. Gobind also extended an invitation to UK partners to participate in Malaysia's upcoming flagship events, including the Asean Malaysia AI Summit scheduled for August 2025, and the Smart City Expo Kuala Lumpur, to be held in September 2025. — Bernama
Al Bawaba
29-05-2025
- Business
- Al Bawaba
Mindware Expands Footprint into East Africa with Strategic Launch in Nairobi
As part of its strategic expansion, Mindware, a leading value-added distributor (VAD) in the Middle East and Africa, marked a powerful new chapter in its growth journey with the official launch of its East Africa operations, celebrated through a high-energy event in Nairobi on 27th May together over 200 channel partners, industry leaders, top vendor representatives, and channel partners, the event served as a clear declaration of Mindware's commitment to empowering East Africa's digital future. The Nairobi office, now fully operational, will serve as the company's strategic hub for East Africa covering Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Ethiopia."This launch is not just about opening doors, it's about opening possibilities," said Spiros Rafailovits, Territory Manager, East Africa at Mindware. "We are here to co-create the future of technology in East Africa by investing in people, forging trusted partnerships, and delivering cutting-edge solutions that accelerate growth across the region."Since announcing its East Africa expansion earlier this year, Mindware has made bold strides; doubling its local workforce, onboarding regional vendors, and hosting partner enablement sessions across key markets. These actions reflect Mindware's strong momentum and growing relevance in the launch event went beyond the traditional format, with inspiring keynote addresses, forward-looking panel discussions, and networking sessions that enabled stakeholders to explore Mindware's expanded portfolio and strategic roadmap. In line with its partner-first strategy, Mindware has rolled out technical and sales enablement programs, and is working with vendors to deliver certification courses tailored to local market new partnerships already signed with regional ICT providers, Mindware is set to announce several new vendor collaborations in the coming weeks further expanding its portfolio in cloud, cybersecurity, networking, and enterprise Voices"Mindware's setup in Kenya has brought a new level of professionalism and opportunity to the local IT channel. Their commitment to partner success is evident in every interaction. As it is said, 'focusing on customer satisfaction is crucial to building lasting relationships', this is exactly the game changer that Mindware has brought to the Kenyan market. We can't ask for anything more.'- Cornelious Anjichi, Chief Finance Officer at Down to Earth Technologies'Mindware's setup in Kenya has brought a new level of professionalism and opportunity to the local IT channel. Their commitment to partner success is evident in every interaction. Working with Mindware has been a game-changer. Their local presence means faster support, better access to new technologies, and a new partnership approach that helps us grow.' - Peris Kabora, Supply Chain and Administration Manager at Sybyl Kenya Ltd.
Tahawul Tech
28-05-2025
- Business
- Tahawul Tech
Alghanim Industries describe agreement with Starlink as a leap toward a ‘borderless digital future'
Alghanim Industries has said that its landmark agreement with Starlink is more than just a major milestone for connectivity, but instead a huge leap towards a borderless digital future. Through this game-changing agreement, Alghanim Industries becomes an official global channel for Starlink's advanced low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation — the most sophisticated internet system ever deployed. This technology aims to shatter connectivity barriers, delivering high-speed, low-latency internet anywhere, to even the world's most isolated communities — whether you're in a bustling city, a desert camp, or sailing through open waters. To drive this innovation, Alghanim Industries is unveiling Sama X, a bold new tech venture and authorized Starlink global reseller that brings Starlink technology to life for millions of potential users across the Middle East, North Africa, India, Turkey, Pakistan, and beyond. 'Our agreement with Starlink marks more than a milestone for connectivity—it's a leap toward a borderless digital future where education, innovation, and opportunity know no limits. We are committed to providing internet from space to unlock opportunities on Earth,' said Kutayba Y. Alghanim, Executive Chairman of Alghanim Industries. A Quantum Leap in Global Connectivity Starlink isn't your typical internet provider. It's a space-powered constellation of over 7,000 low-Earth orbit satellites (LEO), delivering blazing-fast internet to over 5 million users in 118+ countries. Since 2020, SpaceX has launched more LEO satellites than all other providers combined, building an unparalleled infrastructure that delivers fiber-like speeds without the constraints of traditional ground-based networks. Unlike traditional satellite systems orbiting thousands of kilometers above Earth, Starlink's LEO network operates much closer to the surface—dramatically reducing latency and delivering real-time internet experiences: crystal-clear video calls, immersive online gaming, uninterrupted streaming, and mission-critical business communications, all possible from anywhere. A Universe of Possibilities Starlink's technology is already transforming industries: Healthcare: Powering telemedicine for rural clinics Manufacturing: Enabling real-time data and diagnostics across global supply chains Telecommunications: Cost-effectively extend their networks into underserved areas, using satellite connectivity as a high-reliability backhaul Education & Employment: Allowing students and professionals in remote areas to engage in a digital economy Maritime: Delivering high-speed, low-latency internet to vessels worldwide, revolutionizing navigation, operations, and crew welfare at sea Introducing Sama X: A Bridge to the Future Born from Alghanim's legacy of innovation, Sama X is designed to be the region's trusted partner in next-generation connectivity. As a Starlink reseller, Sama X combines cutting-edge space technology with local market expertise, delivering not just the technology but a turnkey digital transformation solution—from customer onboarding, installation, and activation to implementation and local support. 'With Sama X, we're not just connecting people—we're enabling a digitally prosperous future. We're building bridges to education, remote jobs, global markets, and innovation ecosystems,' said Mahmoud Samara, CEO of Alghanim Industries. 'From remote learning and telemedicine to remote work and cloud-based businesses, we're helping create a more connected, inclusive, and empowered world—starting now.' A New Era from MENA to South Asia The vision is already taking root. Starlink services have received regulatory approvals in Jordan, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, and Yemen, while Saudi Arabia has authorized Starlink for use in the aviation and maritime sectors—ushering in a new age of mobility and smart infrastructure.
