The Digital Divide: The Consequence of Inaccessibility on Developing Countries

Technology has become one of the most used tools in education today. However, access to modern technology is not equally distributed. While developed nations are advancing through technology, many third-world countries are being left behind with their lack of internet access, technology throughout schools, and in people's daily lives. 

In 2021, the United National found that in South Sudan, only 7 percent of the population has access to electricity, with similar rates in the country of Chad. These drawbacks in digital access and overall infrastructure cause these developing countries to fall behind developed countries and has a significant role in slowing the development of modern human rights. The effects of this digital divide is a lower quality of life, less successful economy, and a lack of education. The digital divide in developing countries also slows progress toward a country's long term goals. 

The digital divide prevents many people throughout the world from getting the same level and quality of education as individuals with access to technology. The disadvantages have severe drawbacks, for example preventing students from gaining the skills necessary to earn jobs with advancement opportunities. 

There are many obstacles in developing countries getting over the digital divide, for example political, technological, and educational.

Politically, the decisions of people in power have a great impact on available resources to the public. Political leaders can prevent access to the internet and control how information is shared throughout a country.

Technologically, access to physical technology like computers is increasingly expensive and in most cases, unaffordable, preventing many developing countries from gaining access to them.

Educationally, many developing countries don't have access to basic education and literacy, without these necessary skills that address existing educational disadvantages the digital divide can’t begin to close. 

Many government programs have made progress in closing the digital divide. For example the Europeans Unions Digital Agenda for Europe Program has set goals for increasing access to the internet. Other organizations like the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers(IEEE) encourage the development of science, technology, and communication throughout the world. Sustainable development goals by developing countries also make progress over time through small milestones. 

The digital divide in developing countries limits economic activities that rely on internet communications, limiting scientific research, narrowing social networks, and reducing gender equality, as women are 20 percent less likely than men to access mobile internet. Additionally, limited digital access restricts citizens' ability to engage with their governments, access public information, and participate in democratic processes, further widening social and political inequalities. Even with these limitations, countries have managed to overcome the digital divide, for example South Korea invested in education and infrastructure, by increasing the share of public expenditure on education and putting more emphasis on science and technological studies. This has proven to be successful as the number of graduates in engineering, manufacturing, and construction is higher than what was previously estimated by the Organizations for Economic Co-operation and Development. 

Beyond education and economic growth, the technology gap also affects access to essential services such as healthcare and civic participation. In many developing countries online healthy records and digital public health are limited due to poor internet access. This can lead to poor medical treatment and preventable deaths throughout developing countries. Closing the digital divide requires commitment and cooperation between government, private companies, and international organizations. Investments in infrastructure like electricity and affordable devices are necessary. Expanding digital literacy programs can also help individuals develop the skills needed to use technology effectively. While progress may be slow, even small improvements can have lasting impacts on education, healthcare, and economic opportunity. 

In conclusion, the digital divide throughout the third-world countries remains a major barrier in development and equality. Without addressing this divide, a large portion of the world will continue to be excluded from opportunities that technology provides. Closing this gap is a step toward global advancement, equality, and human development. 

Want to alleviate this issue? You can help Orlando Book Bank close the digital divide in third world countries by donating books and other resources to help educate less privileged students throughout the world that lack the proper resources.