Global digital divide and literacy gap

The global digital divide remains a significant barrier to education and economic development. Approximately 2.2 billion people lack internet access, while many others are ‘under-connected,’ lacking the broadband, devices, and skills required for modern economies. In the education sector, over two-thirds of primary schools lack digital tools, which limits the effectiveness of teachers and learners.

Recent research suggests that closing the digital literacy gap could add an estimated US$3.5 trillion to global GDP by 2030, with over 90% of these gains potentially benefiting low- and middle-income countries. While mobile broadband coverage is high, roughly 3.1 billion people remain offline or unable to utilize connectivity due to deficiencies in digital skills, user trust, and AI literacy.

Artificial intelligence presents both opportunities and risks in this context. AI-powered assistants may help users with limited literacy bypass text-based barriers, but the rapid adoption of these technologies necessitates improved understanding of data privacy, online safety, and deepfakes. Without targeted interventions like community-based training, there is a risk that AI adoption will deepen existing global inequalities.