Initiative on Reducing the “Digital Divide”

The “digital divide” is the gap between those able to benefit from digital age and who are not. problem has two aspects: technological sociological factors. technical aspect mostly infrastructure related includes access affordable network capacity capable end-user equipment. second involves computer skills, literacy knowledge of how make use tools for personal well-being, learning, self-sufficiency, collaboration participation in economy via means. To first order groups separated by divide along economic lines. Indeed, been widening past decade rich poor, creating inequities. This “gulf” denies disadvantaged populations timely useful data on Internet as they unable or less obtain information, work home, learn receive health care services, set online appointments (e.g. vaccination), shop online, participate democratically, economy, skills offer hire. greatly amplified accelerated Covid19 Pandemic that induced heavy reliance remote tele-presence work, e-commerce, banking, medical consultations, etc. Efforts equalize opportunities will require new infrastructure, financing, policy, regulations education medium. much more than giving computers services people without access, support, example, securing housing, education, There a disadvantaged, especially children, constructive technology, available need informing supporting them. Thus, many small medium businesses be educated digitized support employers necessary success.