Sayan, who spoke about the importance of technological transformation and development, stated, “Technological dominance will be possible through reducing dependence on other countries. Therefore, as the Ministry, our primary goal is to develop a domestic and national ecosystem in the sector. In line with our goal of a Turkey that is competent in science, technology, and innovation, produces, and increases added value with its own intellectual power, we continue our work with a human-centered approach. In our Eleventh Development Plan, we have identified areas such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, augmented reality, big data, robotics, quantum, cybersecurity, and sensor technologies as priority critical technology areas. Our aim is to further strengthen our country's position in the new world order and to enable our citizens to benefit from the blessings of technology at the highest level.”
Deputy Minister Sayan: Quantum Technologies Will Dominate the Coming Years
Drawing attention to the fact that quantum technologies to be used will make big data even more important, Sayan said, “Quantum technologies appear to be set to dominate the coming years. Quantum technologies have begun to make their presence felt in the field of communication. In 2016, the world's first quantum satellite established a quantum connection from a distance of 1200 kilometers, marking a first in this field. However, it must be emphasized that this technology has not yet reached the maturation stage despite these rapid developments. Undoubtedly, the expected benefits from this technology will emerge when it reaches sufficient maturity. In particular, the ability to process very large and complex data in a very short time through quantum computation indicates that the future lies in this technology. Many countries have included quantum in their national plans and programs. We have also included our targets for the development of quantum technologies in our 11th Development Plan. We have designated the development of these technologies as critical areas.”
Sayan, who emphasized the importance of conducting studies in collaboration with public institutions, the private sector, universities, and all relevant stakeholders in this field in our country, said, “There are many areas to work on regarding quantum technologies. First of all, hybrid systems need to be developed, and country standards need to be set for algorithms and protocols. In addition, issues such as making key sharing and management in encryption devices resistant, and increasing key sizes to reach quantum security levels need to be addressed.”
Sayan, who stated that quantum technologies will also be needed in 5G, said, “In pursuit of our goal to take a pioneering position in 5G and beyond technologies, we discuss new technologies in the 5GTR Forum, which we established in collaboration with public institutions, universities, manufacturers, operators, and relevant civil society organizations in our country. With the 5GTR Forum, we prepared and published a White Paper containing priorities and roadmaps for 5G and Beyond, as well as a report on vertical sectors. We produce R&D projects for our priority topics in this area. Under the organizational structure of the 5GTR Forum, we have organized many national and international events. We have signed cooperation agreements with 5G Forums of countries such as Japan and Korea.”
Deputy Minister Sayan: Developing New Technologies Is Very Important for Our Youth
Sayan also drew attention to the importance of strong R&D and Product Development within a powerful Turkey. Emphasizing that it is essential for parties with technological knowledge accumulation to come together and produce high added-value products for the development and prosperity of our country, Sayan said, “For the development of new technologies such as quantum technologies, it is essential to invest in our youth for tomorrow. We have great confidence in the talents of our children and youth, who are the guarantee of our future. We have no doubt that when given the necessary education and opportunities, they will add strength to our strength.”
Touching upon the topic of Digital Literacy, Sayan spoke as follows: “About 1 year ago, we launched the ‘Open Source Digital Content Production Project’ to contribute to the adoption of the open source philosophy and approach, to produce rich content for the effective use of technology, to contribute to the dissemination and widespread use of the work done, to improve the quality and quantity of content, and to contribute to the literature. This book, prepared to increase our country's awareness of digital literacy and digital productivity, has been made available to users through our Secure Internet Center's acikkaynak.gim.org.tr, which provides access to all open source and shareable information. With the National Technology Move, we are working more determinedly as our systematic efforts bear fruit.”
Sayan concluded his speech by stating that while evaluating the opportunities of technology, its risks must also be calculated.