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New Technologies: Digital divide

Wifi in Mali_Flickr_robin.elaine

The North-South gap in access to, and the capability to use, modern information technology — often referred to as the 'digital divide' — can be a major barrier to the development of low-income countries.

(Photo credit: robin.elaine)

Opinions and Analysis

A Drishtee Internet kiosk in India. ICT for development: hope or hype?

Athar Osama argues that despite big new initiatives, ICT's reputation as a major driver of development is so far undeserved.

9 November 2006 | EN

Setting up citizens’ commissions could be a step towards making technology work for the poor We need a 'slow race' for science-based development

Melissa Leach and Ian Scoones argue that enhanced citizen engagement is essential in making technology work for the poor.

19 July 2006 | EN

Information summit's main success was idea sharing

22 November 2005 | EN
Source: BBC Online

Policy Briefs

Improving livelihoods with ICTs

ICT projects can be strategic tools for development if they consider social contexts and are tailored to community needs.

28 May 2009 | EN | 中文
Source: IIED


News and Features

Honduras to reward promising students with computer

Honduran public schools students achieving academic excellence will be rewarded by the government with a computer.

20 April 2009 | ES
Source: El Heraldo

Rural Internet — not online but still connected

The Internet is spreading to villages in the developing world — but sometimes in unexpected ways, reports Katherine Nightingale.

13 February 2009 | EN | FR