Digital Literacy, Inclusivity and Sustainable Development in Africa

Sustainable development can only be achieved when no one is left behind, and the COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the importance of digital infrastructure and skills for teaching, learning, employability, and participation in society. This book showcases contributions from libraries across Africa that have approached the shift towards better and more widespread digital literacy, including teaching user communities to operate in online spaces, increasing employability in Tunisia, driving digital literacy through eLearning initiatives, and insights into the level of digital skills of students in Uganda and Botswana. It explains how the global pandemic has exacerbated the already existing digital gap in Africa, and why laying emphasis on digital literacy may constitute a great setback in the goal of 'no one is left behind in the drive for all to be digitally literate and to fully participate in the 21st-century society.'

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 25 August 2022
Publisher: Facet Publishing

Sustainable development is a holistic approach that aims to ensure that no one is left behind. This concept has gained significant importance in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis, highlighting the critical role of digital infrastructure and skills in teaching, learning, employability, and social participation. Digital literacy has become a vital necessity for millions worldwide, particularly in Africa, where individuals have been compelled to rapidly adapt to online platforms for various purposes. The African library sector has played a pivotal role in advocating for digital literacy across the continent.

In this book, contributions from libraries across Africa showcase their innovative approaches to promoting digital literacy. The chapters cover a range of topics, including:

• In Kenya, libraries have been actively teaching their user communities, including deaf children, to navigate online spaces effectively. This initiative aligns with the country's national vision of inclusivity and empowerment.

• In Tunisia, digital literacy plays a crucial role in enhancing employability, particularly among young people. Libraries have implemented various programs and services to equip individuals with the necessary skills for the digital job market.

• In Ghana, the Ghana Library Authority, the National Library of Nigeria, and the City of Johannesburg Library have taken the lead in driving digital literacy through eLearning initiatives and other digital services. These efforts have reached a wide audience, including students, teachers, and community members.

• Insights into the digital skills of students in Uganda and how tertiary institutions in Botswana have transitioned to teaching and learning on digital platforms provide valuable perspectives on the level of digital literacy in the region.

The book aims to shed light on how the global pandemic has exacerbated the existing digital gap in Africa. It emphasizes the importance of prioritizing digital literacy in a continent where inadequate digital infrastructure poses significant challenges. By investing in digital literacy, Africa can bridge the digital divide, empower individuals, and promote inclusive growth and development.

This book is a valuable resource for librarians, educators, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the role of digital literacy in promoting social inclusion and economic empowerment in Africa. It offers practical insights and case studies that can be replicated and adapted to other contexts, contributing to the global effort to bridge the digital divide and create a more equitable and inclusive society.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781783305117