Policy and Regulatory Affairs Section
Key functions of the Authority include investigating and resolving consumer complaints, identifying new services and technologies, formulating strategic projects, and developing policies and regulations. The Section engages in extensive consultations with service providers, keeping abreast of emerging communication technologies and providing advisory support to the government.
Policy development, research, and the formulation of major license conditions are integral aspects of its responsibilities. The Section actively monitors and reviews the Standardisation Quality of Service (QOS), maintains databases related to QOS and tariffs, and assesses the conformity of equipment through type approval processes. Infrastructure development, supervision, enforcement, and evaluation of licensee activities are crucial for ensuring compliance with policies and regulations.
Additionally, the Section manages the Universal Service Fund (USF), arbitrates and resolves disputes between service providers, and conducts public awareness campaigns. Legal, finance, economic analysis, and market statistics are also within its purview. The Section actively participates in tariff and pricing reviews, evaluates business and investment strategies, and oversees interconnection matters. Consumer protection remains a priority, with a focus on investigating and resolving consumer complaints and preventing anticompetitive practices. Furthermore, the Section plays a vital role in advising on legal matters, drafting legal documents, and preparing tender invitations. In summary, the Policy and Regulatory Affairs Section serves as a multifaceted entity essential for creating a conducive environment for the growth and development of the country’s economy in the dynamic ICT sector.
Radio Communications Section
The Radio Communications Section plays a pivotal role in managing national resources related to broadcasting and telecommunication services, with two key sub-units: the Resource Management Unit and the Advisory and Planning Unit. The Resource Management Unit administers telecommunication-related national resources, including frequency spectrum, numbering codes, and call signs, ensuring efficient and optimal utilization. This unit conducts engineering field activities and enforces guidelines for frequency spectrum users.
On the other hand, the Advisory and Planning Unit identifies and studies International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Radio Regulations, best practices, and standards, providing administrative guidelines that the Resource Management Unit enforces. The overall functions of the Radio Communications Section encompass processing licenses, conducting radio communication inspections, managing numbering administration, maintaining relevant databases, and developing national plans for spectrum and numbering usage.
The Section engages in spectrum management, allocation of call signs, and maintenance of a national frequency register. It also participates in international conferences, implementing their outcomes, and provides technical support to the Seychelles Bureau of Standards. Notably, the Section promotes the expansion of a nationwide wireless network for internet access by reviewing wireless network policies, allowing open access to frequencies for Internet Service Providers (ISPs). This involves collaboration with stakeholders to resolve interference and other issues resulting from sharing designated frequency bands. The goal is to facilitate the deployment of wireless access nationwide, ensuring accessibility for all ISPs and contributing to the country’s technological advancement.