A week of events to present 21st century technology to the general public starts today with the Island's first Technology Week, which has been given the shortened moniker of TechWeek by the Ministry of the Environment, Telecommunications and E-Commerce.

From today through Friday afternoon, various lunch time events and demonstrations will take place with the aim of increasing the awareness and education of the public on what technologies are available to them in Bermuda and how to get the most out of them.

Bermuda has just been ranked 15th in the Economist publication's Intelligence Unit's Global E-Readiness Rankings, which was a five place improvement on its debut in the global rankings the previous year.

E-Commerce Minister Neletha Butterfield said the rankings are used by Fortune 500 companies and other international business leaders to decide where to base foreign investments. Bermuda's ranking, already impressive for such a small jurisdiction and ahead of the likes of Germany, Japan and France, is likely to be improved by having greater technology conversance amongst residents.

"TechWeek is designed to engage the public of all ages, with activities that are fun, educational and entertaining, providing avenues for learning and acquiring new technology skills and celebrating Bermudian talent and expertise in technology at the same time," said Ms Butterfield.

"There is something for everyone, from TechArt to TechMusic, robotics and gaming activities, animation workshops and tech tours for students, lunch and learn sessions, technology teas for seniors and celebrating Bermuda's best and brightest with the Technology Innovation Awards."

TechWeek will be officially launched this morning at the Fairmont Princess Hotel with a special education presentation.