The global Covid-19 crisis has compelled our society to accelerate its transition to the digital realm, with significant implications for education. However, the shadow of inequalities persists, underscored by the latest Digital Inclusion Barometer from the King Baudouin Foundation. This report reveals alarming disparities in access to technology and digital skills, shedding light on the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals.
Digital skills evolving slowly and requiring constant updates
In 2021, digital vulnerability concerns 46% of individuals aged 16 to 74 in Belgium. Among them, 39% have limited digital skills, while 7% do not use the internet. The addition of the ‘online security’ category by EUROSTAT in 2021 highlights the challenge of maintaining adequate digital skills, especially in a constantly evolving world.
Inequalities persist, with a marked increase in digital vulnerability among less educated and low-income individuals. In Wallonia, the digital vulnerability rate reaches 49%, surpassing Flanders (46%) and Brussels (39%). The rapid digitization in Flanders does not correspond to a proportional increase in digital skills.
Limited access to digital technologies
Although internet access has increased in Belgium (92% of households have a connection), disparities persist. Low-income households (82%) have less access than their high-income counterparts (98%). Moreover, 17% of internet users connect only via smartphone, limiting their access to more sophisticated computing tools.
Access to essential digital services is increasing (e-banking +2%, e-health +11%, e-commerce +11%, e-administration +14%). However, gaps persist, particularly in e-administration, where the level of education becomes more determinant than income level.
At-risk populations and digital disengagement
The risk of digital disengagement particularly affects low-income individuals, those with lower education levels, those over 55, and job seekers. Low-educated young people defy the “digital native” stereotype, with 22% relying on the internet only via smartphone and 45% having limited digital skills.
Team4Job: a key partner in overcoming inequalities
In the face of these challenges, initiatives like Team4Job prove crucial. By investing in tools and services accessible to all, as well as in the development of digital skills, Team4Job contributes to eliminating digital barriers. While promoting digital channels, the initiative recognizes the importance of alternative solutions, ensuring the inclusion of the most vulnerable individuals.
Investing in education for a fair digital future
Digital inclusion is imperative for a prosperous and equitable society. The results of the Digital Inclusion Barometer emphasize the ongoing need to invest in education and equitable access to technologies. In collaboration with partners such as Team4Job, Semlex For Education is committed to playing an essential role in creating a fair digital future for all.
Let us be the architects of change, building a digital world where education is accessible to all, regardless of their socio-economic situation. The future of our digital society depends on our ability to overcome these inequalities and ensure that no one is left behind.
Sources :
Fondation Roi Boudouin (2022). « Malgré la numérisation croissante, près d’un Belge sur deux en situation de vulnérabilité numérique ». Available here: https://kbs-frb.be/fr/malgre-la-numerisation-croissante-pres-dun-belge-sur-deux-en-situation-de-vulnerabilite-numerique
Team4Job (2023). Accueil. Available here: https://team4job.be/
