Opening the door to digital knowledge for poor women.

While the world is increasingly reliant on online data and knowledge, women in remote areas or those in low-income groups are facing the risk of "information poverty, skills poverty, and opportunities for advancement." So, in this context, what is the door to hope?

Expert Chu Tuan Anh - Director of Aptech International Programmer Training System - shared his views on this issue.

According to experts , what are the biggest barriers preventing poor women from accessing digital knowledge today, especially in rural and mountainous areas? Is it just a matter of technology, or are there also invisible barriers such as social prejudice and lack of self-confidence?

Currently, poor women in remote areas face many barriers to accessing digital knowledge. First, there are tangible barriers related to infrastructure such as inadequate internet access and 4G/5G base stations. In addition, there is a lack of technological devices such as smartphones, computers, or laptops.

Besides tangible barriers, there are also intangible ones. For example, in a poor family where neither the husband nor the children use technology, the woman's need and motivation to access digital knowledge are significantly reduced. Another intangible barrier is limited time. Women in remote areas, as well as the general population, often depend on manual labor for their livelihood, leaving them with little time to learn or use technology. Most importantly, there is self-doubt. Due to limited access to quality education from a young age, many women feel inadequate to grasp new knowledge.

Expert Chu Tuan Anh - Director of Aptech International Programmer Training System - shared:

In the context of comprehensive digital transformation, what fundamental skills are the "key" that poor women need to master to unlock the door to digital knowledge? And who will help them acquire that "key"?

The most important foundational skill for poor women is self-confidence. Only with self-confidence can they proactively explore and acquire digital knowledge. The second most important skill is using basic technological devices. This includes simple operations such as turning the TV on/off, changing channels, or opening popular applications like Facebook. Another crucial skill is proficiently using communication applications, such as Zalo, to perform functions like messaging and calling. Communication is a basic need and is used daily. When women master these skills, they will have more inspiration and motivation to proactively explore digital technology . The ability to search for information on the Internet is also a key element.

Regarding support groups, local authorities play the most crucial role. They have regular contact with poor women, understand their needs, and can provide appropriate support. The second most important group is the Women's Union, with its tightly-knit system from the central to local levels, always working closely with women. Non- governmental organizations also contribute effectively in supporting training and skills development. Finally, businesses and communities play a vital role thanks to their abundant human and equipment resources. They are ready to provide the necessary support to help poor women in remote areas access digital technology.

What models and programs are currently considered effective by experts in supporting disadvantaged women's access to digital education and lifelong learning? Which ones should be replicated?

Currently, Vietnam has implemented several effective models to support disadvantaged women in accessing digital education and lifelong learning. The Vietnam Women's Union also organizes free digital skills training programs, helping ethnic minority and rural women access e-commerce and online business.

To scale up effectiveness, several points need to be emphasized. First, programs need to be implemented simply, relatable, and practical. Instead of using academic terminology like "digital transformation," use easily understandable expressions, for example: "How to sell products over the phone?", "How to get an online medical consultation?", or "How to find information online?".

Secondly , support is needed in terms of technological equipment, such as providing affordable phones, subsidizing replacement costs, or setting up free internet access points at village cultural centers, equipping them with high-speed networks for easy use by women.

Third , a learning support network should be established, including mentors who are available to help women with knowledge and resources at convenient times and in easily accessible locations.

Finally , enhanced communication is needed to change perceptions, emphasizing that technology is not difficult and anyone can learn and apply it. These factors need to be scaled up to ensure that disadvantaged women have more opportunities to access digital education and lifelong learning.

Amidst the "maze" of information online, how can women with limited access to technology identify accurate and practical knowledge relevant to their lives?

To help them identify accurate information, local training programs should be organized, combining two aspects: digital technology skills and the ability to distinguish reliable information. Timely support from experts or volunteers is needed so that women can easily ask for advice or guidance whenever necessary. Over time, this support will help them gradually recognize what content is accurate and relevant to their needs.

Another important factor is integrating local culture into educational content. Furthermore, building a community that uses technology together is also very effective. For example, creating a Zalo group for women in a village or commune, where they can interact and exchange information daily in a fun way. This is a friendly approach that makes digital education more accessible, encouraging women in remote areas to confidently learn and apply technology to their lives.

Thank you, expert!

Source: https://phunuvietnam.vn/mo-canh-cua-tri-thuc-so-cho-phu-nu-ngheo-20250414171824468.htm