Closing Digital Literacy Gap Could Unlock Trillions in Global GDP Growth
Over one-third of the global population remains offline despite mobile broadband coverage, primarily due to a lack of digital skills, according to a new report. Addressing this gap could boost global GDP by trillions.
More than a third of the world's population (38%) is still offline, even with mobile broadband coverage available, according to a new report authored by GSMA Intelligence in partnership with Huawei. The report, released during UNESCO's Digital Learning Week in Paris, highlights that a lack of digital literacy skills is the primary barrier to internet access.
Estimates suggest that closing the digital literacy gap could unlock trillions of dollars in global GDP growth. The findings indicate that the absence of digital skills is a more significant impediment to getting online than the lack of network coverage itself.
During the event, UNESCO emphasized the critical need for education and skills development to enable full participation in the digital age. The report aims to shed light on how digital inclusion can be advanced worldwide.
The research from Huawei and GSMA Intelligence points to the potential of connecting more people and enhancing their digital capabilities to foster economic development and improve living standards, particularly in developing nations.