Cost of digital divide

The world is changing at an unprecedented pace. In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, technology is transforming every sector from education and healthcare to agriculture and governance. While digital innovation promises progress, it also raises a critical concern regarding whether this transformation will be inclusive or deepen existing inequalities.

Large sections of the population, particularly in rural areas and among low-income communities, still lack access to reliable internet, affordable devices and basic digital literacy. Without bridging this gap, digital development will remain concentrated in urban centres, leaving millions excluded from opportunities in education, employment and public services.

Digital infrastructure must therefore be treated as a public necessity, not a privilege. High-speed internet connectivity should reach remote regions and smart devices must be made affordable for students and low-income families. E-governance, online banking and digital services can only enhance transparency and efficiency if citizens are able to access and use them effectively.

The divide is especially evident in education. While urban students benefit from online learning platforms and digital resources, many rural schools lack internet facilities, trained teachers and basic technological tools. Introducing coding, data skills and digital literacy in schools will be meaningful only if equal access is ensured nationwide. Otherwise, technology will widen educational inequality rather than reduce it.

Similarly, the digital economy offers vast employment opportunities through freelancing, e-commerce and IT services. However, youth from disadvantaged backgrounds often lack training, internet access and language skills needed to compete globally. Targeted skill development programmes, affordable connectivity and financial support are essential to ensure that benefits of digitaisation are accessible to all.

Md. MahinUddin

Department of Economics

Student, Dhaka College