In Belgium, a survey conducted by the King Boudewijn Foundation (KBS) revealed that 40% of Belgians had limited knowledge when it came to using digital platforms. This was surprising, as it dispelled the myth that all young people are naturally savvy with digital tools. The survey also found that older individuals were more likely to struggle with keeping up with digital technology advancements.
Moreover, the KBS pointed out that more than half of low-skilled young people had poor digital skills compared to their more highly-skilled counterparts. This was a concerning finding, as many individuals relied solely on smartphones to go online without access to a laptop or PC.
One of the implications of this digital divide was that individuals with limited digital skills lacked confidence and felt insecure about tasks like online banking. To address this issue, the KBS stressed the importance of public institutions and banks retaining an in-person presence to support individuals who preferred not to use the internet or did not know how to navigate it for various transactions.
In conclusion, the KBS emphasized the need for public institutions and banks to provide options for individuals who struggle with digital technology, ensuring they have the ability to conduct essential transactions in person. This would help bridge the digital divide and ensure that everyone has equal access to online resources and opportunities.
