Bridging the Digital Divide

By

Phyo Thant Kyaw

For

Dr. Lori Leach

HIST 3925 Winter 2025

February 12, 2025

Department of History

University of New Brunswick

Fredericton, NB, Canada

represents freedom of expression, the capacity for economic development, and the ability to

enforce and protect human rights on a global scale. Yet, the internet’s transformative power is far

from universal. Entire regions remain disconnected due to inadequate infrastructure, financial

barriers, and political limitations. These circumstances are especially pronounced in certain

developing nations, where governmental restrictions or insufficient resources inhibit citizens’

ability to utilize even the most basic digital services. Such disparities in access—often referred to

as the “digital divide”—reinforce existing socioeconomic inequalities and deny entire populations

the full benefits of globalization and technological advances. This paper will focus on the

significant influence that Internet connectivity and computer technology can have on enhancing

governance, protecting human rights, fostering educational growth, and even saving lives by

providing vital healthcare information. It also highlights one exemplary organization, One Laptop

per Child (OLPC), to illustrate how charitable initiatives can help address these critical needs.

Finally, I will reflect on my own potential contributions to bridging the digital divide, underscoring

how each of us has a role to play in making technology more accessible for all.

Many people born and raised in nations with widespread Internet access take it for granted

that they can instantly browse the web, communicate with anyone on social media, and access an

abundance of free educational resources. However, this reality sharply contrasts with the situation

in regions lacking the infrastructure or freedom necessary for Internet access and use. In some

countries, strict political censorship severely restricts online content, curtailing the spread of

information and limiting citizens’ abilities to organize or voice dissent (UNESCO). Meanwhile, in

other places, the Internet is virtually absent due to infrastructural constraints, leaving populations

without even the foundational means to access digital tools. This disparity is often referred to as
the digital divide—a term that includes not only the absence of physical Internet connections but

also the lack of technological devices, digital literacy, and relevant online content. The digital

divide exacerbates existing societal inequities: while those in well-connected regions enjoy the

rapid exchange of information, educational resources, and economic opportunities, those on the

opposite side of the divide are left further behind. Consequently, bridging the digital gap is an

urgent global priority, given that the Internet has become a cornerstone for modern governance,

communication, and innovation (World Bank).

From an administrative standpoint, Internet access serves as a gateway to transparent and

efficient governance. When citizens can connect online, they are more likely to engage in civic

discourse, file e-government forms, and hold public officials accountable (World Bank). In places

where voter education and election resources are made available online, higher levels of voter

participation often follow. Additionally, digital platforms can offer real-time data and feedback

loops between governments and citizens, helping to address community needs more effectively

and quickly. Moreover, Internet connectivity plays a crucial role in protecting and enforcing

human rights by exposing abuses and injustices that may otherwise go unnoticed. Social media

platforms, for instance, have empowered citizens in repressive regimes to disseminate firsthand

accounts of human rights violations to the international community. Similarly, non-governmental

organizations (NGOs) and international watchdogs rely on digital communication to gather and

share evidence, increasing transparency and accountability. In crisis situations such as political

turmoil or natural disasters, instant digital communication can save lives by coordinating relief

efforts and ensuring accurate information is provided to those in need (UNESCO).

Education remains one of the most vital ways the Internet can transform society. For

children in rural or impoverished regions, even a single connected device could open access to a
world of digital textbooks, e-learning platforms, and interactive applications. Through online

courses, learners of all ages can explore new subjects, develop vocational skills, and even

collaborate with peers across the globe. This expanded educational opportunity not only enhances

individual prospects but also contributes to overall societal development (UNESCO).

Additionally, the Internet can offer advanced curricula and specialized learning resources that may

not be otherwise available in local schools. For instance, remote STEM programs or language

instruction can be delivered through digital platforms at a fraction of the cost of building and

staffing traditional classroom facilities. In contexts where teacher shortages persist, or where high-

quality materials are scarce, an Internet-enabled computer lab becomes an invaluable bridge to

modern education. This exposure to digital literacy—knowledge of how to operate and navigate

computers and the Internet—is indispensable in the 21st century, where many jobs require at least

a foundational level of technological proficiency (World Bank).

Beyond governance and education, access to the Internet and computer technology also

shapes health outcomes. Telemedicine—providing healthcare services remotely through digital

technology—has emerged as a powerful tool for reaching patients in remote areas. In underserved

communities that lack adequate medical facilities, telemedicine platforms can connect patients

with healthcare professionals hundreds or thousands of miles away, enabling real-time

consultations and even remote diagnostics (World Health Organization). Mobile applications and

online platforms can share information on disease prevention, immunization schedules, and

prenatal care, empowering individuals to take a proactive role in their health. During global health

crises, such as pandemics, reliable online resources and peer-reviewed medical advice are essential

in combating misinformation and helping people make informed decisions. Public health

campaigns can also leverage digital tools to disseminate messages about hygiene, nutrition, and
other preventive measures. In short, Internet-enabled healthcare significantly broadens the reach

and impact of medical professionals and resources, particularly where physical healthcare

infrastructure is lacking.

One organization that has been at the forefront of these efforts is One Laptop per Child

(OLPC). Founded with the mission of providing low-cost, durable computers to children in

developing nations, OLPC aims to connect students and educators through technology. The

group’s flagship device, the XO laptop, was designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions

including extreme temperatures, humidity, and rough handling while still functioning effectively.

The intuitive interface and software tools emphasize educational applications, such as e-book

readers, language resources, and programming tutorials (One Laptop per Child). OLPC’s work

offers a tangible example of how targeted initiatives can break down barriers to information and

learning. By delivering user-friendly, rugged devices loaded with relevant educational software,

OLPC helps children develop digital literacy and critical thinking skills that will serve them for a

lifetime. Where possible, the organization collaborates with local governments, NGOs, and

communities to establish supporting infrastructure like charging stations or localized Internet

networks. OLPC also trains teachers and volunteers to integrate the devices into daily lessons,

ensuring that technology complements, rather than replaces, traditional pedagogical methods (One

Laptop per Child).

OLPC is not the only initiative making strides. There are other projects, such as the Bill &

Melinda Gates Foundation’s Global Libraries program, which provides technological resources to

public libraries in developing countries. Meanwhile, Google’s Project Loon (now part of Project

Taara) and other satellite-based Internet providers strive to bring connectivity to remote areas via

high-altitude balloons or orbiting constellations of small satellites. Regardless of the specific

potential. While the scope of these projects may seem daunting, each one of us can play a

meaningful role in bridging the digital divide. First, raising awareness is crucial. Informing friends,

family, and social networks about digital inequality highlights the importance of the issue and

gains broader support for initiatives like OLPC. Regularly sharing credible news, research

findings, or personal testimonies from communities affected by the digital divide can cultivate a

sense of global solidarity and empathy.

Donating funds or equipment is a direct way to support organizations dedicated to

providing technology to underserved areas. Many of these initiatives accept monetary

contributions that go toward purchasing devices, setting up Internet infrastructure, or developing

educational programs. Some groups also collect used but functioning computers, smartphones, or

tablets for refurbishing and redistribution to regions in need. By contributing either financially or

with hardware, individuals can help sustain these efforts in a tangible way. Volunteering time and

expertise—either locally or remotely—can make a substantial difference. Schools, libraries, and

community centers in disadvantaged areas need digital literacy instructors to teach basic computer

skills. Even in well-connected regions, volunteering with community programs that offer coding

or robotics workshops to youth from low-income families can help reduce the local digital divide.

If you have specialized skills such as network engineering or web development, you can offer your

services to organizations in setting up digital infrastructure or creating online platforms for remote

learning. Advocating for policy changes in your own community or country also helps ensure that

bridging the digital divide remains on the political agenda. By petitioning local representatives,

participating in public forums, or joining advocacy groups, citizens can influence governmental

priorities related to digital infrastructure, net neutrality, and technology funding for schools.
Stronger policies, such as subsidies for broadband in rural areas or tax incentives for tech

companies that invest in low-income regions, can further accelerate efforts to bring the Internet to

everyone.

In conclusion, the Internet’s capacity to foster improved governance, protect human rights,

extend educational opportunities, and save lives by disseminating vital healthcare information

cannot be overstated. However, this power is severely diminished when entire populations remain

offline due to infrastructural, financial, or political obstacles. Organizations such as One Laptop

per Child provide a clear blueprint for how targeted initiatives can directly address these challenges

by delivering affordable, durable technology solutions to schools and communities in need. Their

work, alongside the efforts of other philanthropic projects, underscores the transformative potential

of Internet and computer access—particularly in places where such resources are scarce or heavily

regulated. The responsibility to bridge the digital divide does not rest solely on large institutions,

NGOs, and governments. As individuals, we can contribute by raising awareness, donating time

and resources, and advocating for policy reforms that prioritize universal Internet access.

Ultimately, ensuring that everyone has the freedom and ability to connect is not simply a matter

of technology; it is a matter of global equity, prosperity, and human dignity. By taking deliberate

steps—whether by volunteering, fundraising, or championing policy changes—we move closer to

a world in which the benefits of the digital revolution extend to all, regardless of where they live

or what circumstances they face.

One Laptop per Child. “Mission.” One Laptop per Child, https://one.laptop.org/about/mission.

United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). “ICT in

Education.” UNESCO, http://www.unesco.org/en/ict-education.

World Bank. “Information and Communications for Development.” World Bank,

https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/ict.

World Health Organization (WHO). “Digital Health.” WHO, https://www.who.int/health-

topics/digital-health.