African Dispute Resolution Journal | 28 December 2003
Digital Inclusion and the Digital Divide in Rural Seychelles Communities, 2003
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Abstract
This study examines digital inclusion and the digital divide in rural communities of Seychelles, a small archipelagic nation in the Indian Ocean. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with a sample of 500 rural residents across all inhabited islands of Seychelles. Data were collected through structured questionnaires designed to measure access to technology, frequency of use, perceived benefits, and barriers to digital participation. The findings indicate that while internet connectivity is widely available in urban areas, it remains sparse in remote villages, creating a significant digital divide. Device ownership shows higher proportions among younger respondents (aged 15-30) compared to older generations, suggesting generational gaps in technology adoption. Rural Seychelles communities face substantial challenges in bridging the digital divide, with limited access and low levels of digital literacy being major barriers. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions aimed at enhancing connectivity and promoting digital skills training programmes. Policy recommendations include prioritising infrastructure investments to improve internet penetration in rural areas and implementing educational initiatives to address the digital divide among less digitally literate populations.