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Free and open source software (FOSS) as a vehicle for human development in Egypt: some evidence and insights

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  • Nagla Rizk

Abstract

This paper is based on the hypothesis that free and open source software (FOSS) has a developmental potential in Egypt as it relies on a democratising technology and a collaborative liberalising knowledge production model that encourages smaller business structures rather than proprietary conglomerates. This hypothesis is tested through in-depth interviews with stakeholders. Fieldwork reveals a strong potential for FOSS, particularly towards enhancing different layers of human capital. As FOSS in Egypt is at its infancy stage, its developmental potential is stunted as market forces point towards reinforcing larger proprietary software models at the expense of smaller FOSS-based businesses. This is compounded by limited political will, lack of awareness and absence of FOSS from educational curricula, all of which pose additional challenges. This paper provides recommendations for action in the short and long-terms to promote FOSS as a vehicle for Egypt's development.

Suggested Citation

  • Nagla Rizk, 2012. "Free and open source software (FOSS) as a vehicle for human development in Egypt: some evidence and insights," International Journal of Technological Learning, Innovation and Development, Inderscience Enterprises Ltd, vol. 5(3), pages 221-236.
    • Handle: RePEc:ids:ijtlid:v:5:y:2012:i:3:p:221-236
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    Cited by:

    1. Knut Blind & Tim Pohlmann & Florian Ramel & Sacha Wunsch-Vincent, 2014. "The Egyptian Information Technology Sector and the Role of Intellectual Property: Economic Assessment and Recommendations," WIPO Economic Research Working Papers 18, World Intellectual Property Organization - Economics and Statistics Division.

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