NAIROBI: Microsoft, the world's biggest producer and marketer of computer software, intends to open an office in Zambia. Microsoft VP, Ali Faramawy, said having representation in Zambia would significantly help reduce the cost of computer software, which is mainly purchased from South Africa and Kenya. Faramawy said the company is also considering setting up an information and communication technology (ICT) laboratory at the University of Zambia to enable students to develop a proactive approach in researching and accessing information. He said youths and the use of technology were playing a critical role in bringing about positive change in modern day society. He said ICT could play a significant role in helping African nations with advanced global technologies. “Africa has many investment opportunities and ICT is one area some countries should invest in to help increase development growth because most countries still lag behind in this area,” he said. Zambian Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Vocational Training David Mabumba has called on Microsoft to help address some ICT challenges at UNZA. Mabumba said ICT remained a key factor in the education sector and commended the corporation for its intentions to help the country's highest learning institution with ICT tools.