Bridging the Digital Divide for Sustainable Development: Technology Access and Skills Pathways for Underprivileged Communities

Key Points

• This paper aims to address the structural barriers of the digital divide and suggests pathways for empowerment in marginalized communities.
• Proposes the 'Digital Inclusion Stack' framework combining infrastructure access and digital literacy.
• Conducts a localized case study in Bangladesh to exemplify the framework's application.
• Develops a robust Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) framework for implementation.
• Identifies key barriers to technology access for underprivileged communities.
• Highlights the importance of inclusive policy interventions in achieving SDGs.
• Offers strategic guidance for policymakers and NGOs to foster equitable digital futures.