Bridging the Digital Divide: Empowering Older Kazakhs in the Digital Age
Closing the Digital Divide: Addressing the Technology Chasm between Youth and Seniors in Kazakhstan
Hey there! Let's chat about an important issue that many of us have noticed in Kazakhstan: the yawning chasm that exists between the generations when it comes to digital competence and e-government platforms. Unlike grandparents in a small apartment, Kazakhstan has soared to 24th place in the global e-government development index, thanks to the digital power harnessed through the Digital Kazakhstan program. But what about those left behind?
During a visit to my dear grandparents in Astana, I found myself helping them fill out an online application for a certificate. Despite my attempts to guide them through the process, my grandmother voiced frustration, saying, "Just do it for us, we won't learn anyways, it's too hard." This comment left me perplexed. Why couldn't the process be simpler?
Long lines at local Public Service Centers tell the tale of the struggle. Most of the people waiting are the elderly and middle-aged, relying on youngsters to assist them. But reality hits differently. These public servants are swamped by crowds of citizens, and the help they provide is slow and sporadic. It's painfully obvious: we're facing a massive generational digital divide.
Recognizing this issue, the government has made strides in reforming governance, with a focus on streamlining public service delivery processes. However, the efforts seem to bypass the older generation.
Reports and studies surely don't miss the mark. As internet scams, phishing, and fraud flourish in Kazakhstan, it's clear: older adults are particularly vulnerable. And the pandemic only made things worse. While telehealth was just starting to gain ground, much-needed government aid was doled out online. Needless to say, many were left in the dark about how to access these resources.
But don't lose hope! It's time for concrete action to bridge this divide.
Bridging the Gap
To address this issue, a multi-faceted approach is needed. Here's how we can chip away at the chasm:
1. Digital Literacy Programs: Comprehensive digital literacy programs are vital, focusing on basic computer skills, internet access, and navigation of e-government platforms. Classes should be easy to access and appealing to seniors.
2. Simplified User Interfaces: User-centered design is essential for e-government platforms. They should be intuitive for all age groups and available on various devices commonly used by seniors. Multilingual support will also cater to those less fluent in dominant languages.
3. Infrastructure Expansion: High-speed internet access should be extended to rural and underserved areas, ensuring everyone has reliable internet. Digital inclusion initiatives can provide free or low-cost devices to those in need, with older generations being a top priority.
4. Policy and Legislation: Policies mandating inclusivity in digital services and legal protections against digital rights abuses and age discrimination are key. Legislation enforcing accessibility standards for all e-government services is also critical.
5. AI-Driven Solutions: AI can be harnessed to create personalized support systems for seniors interacting with digital services. AI can also develop tools to assist seniors, such as voice assistants and predictive interfaces.
6. Community Engagement: Community centers offering digital resources, training, and support should be established to provide a welcoming environment for seniors. Public awareness campaigns promoting the benefits and ease of use of digital services can also help bridge the divide.
As for Kazakhstan's plan to unveil a national AI strategy in 2025, it presents an opportunity to incorporate AI-driven solutions into e-government platforms, making them more inclusive and user-friendly for all age groups. Collaboration with organizations like UNICEF, already involved in promoting digital public goods, can further support these initiatives.
Let's work together to create a more connected Kazakhstan, where digital services cater to everyone—irrespective of age. Let's ensure that the benefits of our nation's digital transformation are not just lip service, but a genuine reality for every single citizen.
Dinara Shokayeva is a PhD student at the Graduate School of Public Policy, Nazarbayev University.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the position of The Astana Times.
- Acknowledging the digital divide in Kazakhstan, particularly among older adults, is crucial for policymakers as they work towards bridging the gap.
- To achieve this, Dinara Shokayeva, a PhD student at Nazarbayev University, suggests digital literacy programs that focus on seniors, simplified user interfaces, infrastructure expansion, policy and legislation, AI-driven solutions, community engagement, and the incorporation of AI-driven solutions into e-government platforms.
- By implementing these initiatives, Kazakhstan can create a more inclusive digital landscape where e-government services are accessible and beneficial to everyone, regardless of age.
- Collaboration with organizations like UNICEF, already deeply involved in promoting digital public goods, can further strengthen and support these transformative efforts in Kazakhstan.
