New Azerbaijan digital skills assessment 2023-2024 powered by International Telecommunication Union

The report, produced by the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan in collaboration with the ITU, assesses the level of digital skills across various demographics in Azerbaijan, including the general public, students, teaching staff, and employees in both public and private sectors. This pioneering study aims to guide data-driven interventions that foster digital literacy, supporting the nation’s socio-economic goals by enhancing digital competencies across the population.

Why It’s Critical?

As Azerbaijan rapidly advances in its digital transformation, the demand for digital skills grows. This report reveals a significant gap between high internet penetration and impactful digital literacy, limiting individuals’ ability to safely and effectively participate in a digitalized society. Addressing these gaps is vital to mitigate online risks, promote equitable access to digital opportunities, and enable workforce to thrive in the global digital economy.

What are the Main Findings?

1. Low Overall Digital Literacy: Only 25% of Azerbaijan’s population aged 15-74 possess at least basic digital skills.
2. Digital Safety and Problem-Solving Deficits: More than half of internet users lack skills in digital safety, content creation, and problem-solving, which are crucial for safe online interactions and basic digital productivity.
3. Youth Digital Skills: A significant percentage of young people, especially those aged 15-24, lack comprehensive digital skills, which could impact future employability and digital economy integration.

What are the Challenges ahead?

1. Skill Gap in Key Areas: Large segments of the population lack digital safety, content creation, and problem-solving skills, limiting their digital literacy.
2. Rural and Gender Disparities: A noticeable urban-rural and gender gap in digital skills, with rural areas and women often lagging in digital competency.
3. Young People’s Limited Skill Set: Despite their internet usage, many young Azerbaijanis do not possess basic skills across all five digital areas, posing a challenge for future workforce readiness.

Three Messages for Policy Makers

1. Focus on Safety and Problem-Solving Skills: Addressing gaps in safety and problem-solving can help bridge basic digital skill deficiencies.
2. Regional and Gender-Inclusive Strategies: Implementing targeted interventions in rural areas and addressing gender disparities can promote equitable digital skills development.
3. Youth Digital Upskilling Programs: Developing school-based digital upskilling programs can ensure young enter the workforce with essential digital competencies.

Cite
International Telecommunication Union. (2024). Azerbaijan Digital Skills Assessment 2023-2024. Ministry of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan, Telecommunication Development Bureau.

Source
https://lnkd.in/emgbytiq

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