Publications

Digital Literacy and Access to Public Services in Rural Households of Bangladesh

The BRAC Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD) undertook a comprehensive household survey titled “Digital Literacy and Access to Public Services” across rural households in Bangladesh. The two-round survey, the first round conducted in 2019 and the second in 2021, gathered data on digital access, skills, and utilization of digital public services. The report focuses on the second survey round, supplemented by highlights from the first round survey in 2019 and a comparative analysis of both rounds. The survey involved interviewing the most digitally able person (MDAP) from each household, nominated by household members. Findings indicate widespread mobile phone access but limited internet-enabled device and general internet access. Although some MDAPs possessed basic digital skills, fewer exhibited the higher-order skills necessary for internet-based tasks. Comparing both rounds, MDAPs showed increased access and skills, particularly in smartphone use and internet proficiency. The report highlights a tendency for MDAPs with advanced digital literacy to independently access services, while those with lower skills seek assistance from formal or informal intermediaries for non-intermediary services.

Authors: Shafi, Yasin
Type: Report
Year: 2023

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