By:Assistant Professor Dr. Amjad Hameed Majeed Head of Business Administration Department As societies around the world move rapidly toward digital transformation, access to technology has become essential for education, employment, healthcare, communication, and public services. However, millions of people still lack the tools, connectivity, or skills needed to participate in the digital world. This unequal access is known as digital poverty, a growing challenge that threatens social equity and economic development. What is Digital Poverty? Digital poverty refers to a condition in which individuals or communities are unable to access, afford, or effectively use digital technologies. It includes: • Lack of reliable internet connection • Inability to afford digital devices such as computers or smartphones • Limited digital skills • Absence of digital literacy education • Poor infrastructure, especially in rural or disadvantaged areas Digital poverty is not only about owning devices, but also about having the knowledge and confidence to use them meaningfully. ________________________________________ Causes of Digital Poverty 1. Economic Barriers • High cost of digital devices • Expensive or unreliable internet services • Low household income limiting technological access 2. Geographic and Infrastructure Gaps • Rural and remote areas with weak or no connectivity • Limited investment in broadband and network expansion 3. Educational Inequality • Schools lacking digital tools • Students without access to e-learning resources at home • Families unaware of digital opportunities 4. Social and Demographic Factors • Older adults unfamiliar with technology • People with disabilities lacking accessible digital options • Gender gaps in some regions Impacts of Digital Poverty 1. Educational Disadvantages Students without internet access or digital devices struggle to participate in online learning, creating long-term educational gaps. 2. Reduced Employment Opportunities Many jobs now require digital skills. Digital poverty limits access to job platforms, online training, and remote work. 3. Social Exclusion People experiencing digital poverty may be unable to access government services, healthcare information, online banking, or essential communication tools. 4. Widening Economic Inequality Digital poverty reinforces existing social and economic disparities, making it harder for disadvantaged groups to improve their quality of life. Solutions to Digital Poverty 1. Improving Digital Infrastructure • Expanding broadband networks in underserved areas • Ensuring affordable, high-speed internet for all households 2. Providing Devices and Financial Support • Government programs offering free or subsidized laptops/tablets • Community technology centers for shared digital access 3. Promoting Digital Education • Integrating digital literacy into school curricula • Offering community training for adults and seniors • Supporting lifelong digital learning 4. Strengthening Public–Private Partnerships • Collaboration between governments, tech companies, and NGOs • Corporate social responsibility programs donating devices or internet access 5. Ensuring Inclusive Digital Policies • Designing accessible digital platforms for people with disabilities • Addressing gender-based digital gaps • Developing national digital inclusion strategies Conclusion Digital poverty is a major barrier to inclusive development. As technology becomes essential to everyday life, those who lack digital access face increasing disadvantages. Addressing digital poverty requires coordinated efforts in infrastructure, education, affordability, and policy. By promoting digital inclusion, societies can ensure that everyone—regardless of income, location, or background—has the opportunity to participate fully in the digital age. Al-Mustaqbal University ranks first among private universities