Building back better following the Covid-19 pandemic is New Zealand’s best opportunity in decades to create a sustainable and inclusive economy and society. For many Kiwis, realizing the promise and essence of digital technologies is vital. Additionally, the widespread adoption of digital tools across the country can underpin a vibrant economy with less socio-economic inequality and greater well-being.
One of the biggest hindrances to this potential new reality is the lack of adequate digital skills among New Zealanders and various aspects of their lives. Fortunately, results show that Kiwis understand the potential for digital technologies to improve their society and economy.
COVID-19 Offers Critical Context
The pandemic saw many New Zealanders adhere to “safer-at-home” guidelines, which resulted in increased use of the internet. Fortunately, over 95 percent of people have internet access at home, while 80 percent have the skills to engage online.
Therefore, more kiwis went online to shop, work remotely, access news and entertainment, engage in online gaming websites, and even place sports bets. It’s no wonder that online gaming and betting companies increased their marketing campaigns as other industries cut down on their expenses. Hence, the numerous betting bonuses like the bet365 bonus code.
According to a BNZ research report, the coronavirus pandemic saw a soaring use of the internet in New Zealand. Unfortunately, the survey found over 700,000 people are at risk of lagging behind because they lacked essential digital skills.
One could say that COVID-19 strapped a rocket on global digital adoption. There was an e-commerce boom as many traditional retailers shifted their operations online to survive the lockdown restrictions and resultant economic recession. What’s more, people with the necessary skills, mostly from white-collar jobs, opted to work from home.
Digital technologies can help countries worldwide lift their well-being and make their economies more productive, sustainable, and inclusive.
The Effect of the Digital Divide in New Zealand
Unfortunately, the 700,000 people with low digital skills are disadvantaged in Kiwi society. Many are people with low education levels or living with disabilities.
Unfortunately, this creates a digital divide that has left too many New Zealanders sitting on the wrong side. It’s correct to say that the country’s ability to equip all its citizens with the necessary digital skills they need to flourish moving forward will either set it up for economic success or perpetuate growing inequality.
Steps in the Right Direction
Fortunately, New Zealand already has a robust digital infrastructure, thanks to the National Broadband Network. The government needs to continue working to extend access to high-speed internet into every corner of the country. Already, 95 percent of Kiwis enjoy internet access at home while 96 percent use it at least a few times weekly.
A concerted effort between the private, public, and not-for-profit sectors is critical to increase Internet access and ensure digital skills training programs across the board. New Zealanders understand the need for these skills. During the pandemic, 70 percent of the population increased its digital skills while 40 percent increased their internet use.
Addressing these issues was already a pressing issue before COVID-19 but has become a paramount global truth with little time to lose. Other countries have already seen the essence of investing in digital skills and infrastructures. The new normal will see digital skills take precedence in virtually every economic sector.
The New Zealand government can start by leveraging its contact with vulnerable citizens through its social and health developmental systems to improve their digital capabilities and inclusion. The private and not-for-profit sectors can also use their networks to reach more people and improve their skills along the way.
A thriving New Zealand economy is the end goal, and it’s in everyone’s best interests.
