Bridging the Digital Divide in Mexico Empowering Women and Indigenous Communities
A new initiative by the Mexican Ministry of Economy and Kyndryl Mexico aims to foster sustainable economic growth by providing digital education to women, indigenous communities, and small businesses.
The Mexican Ministry of Economy (SE) and technology solutions company Kyndryl Mexico have forged a significant partnership to launch a digital education program. This ambitious project, which targets women, Indigenous communities, and small businesses, is a crucial step towards promoting sustainable economic growth through the knowledge and use of next-generation digital tools.
Empowering Through Digital Education
This collaboration includes a hands-on workshop covering general topics related to digital transformation. This free event, scheduled for August 21 at the SE headquarters in Mexico City, will offer training on using cloud systems, best practices for implementing artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, and modules on cybersecurity and resilience. These resources are designed to empower women, indigenous communities, and small businesses, fostering their participation in the digital economy.
The technological gap and the implementation of generative AI in the business environment are significant in Mexico. Owners of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) will have access to five virtual training sessions through the Ministry of Economy’s official Facebook page. These courses are designed to promote sustainable and inclusive business growth and equip entrepreneurs with the skills necessary to participate in the digital economy.
“Kyndryl is deeply committed to contributing to a more inclusive and resilient economy. This program will provide MSMEs with essential knowledge about digitalization, empowering them to take their businesses to the next level,” said Carlos Marcel, CEO of Kyndryl Mexico (AP).
MSMEs account for over 52% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and generate more than 70% of jobs. However, only some have benefited from technological implementation. A report by the Confederation of National Chambers of Commerce, Services, and Tourism (Concanaco-Servytur) indicates that only 15% have an effective digital strategy.
Addressing the Digital Divide
The urgency of addressing the digital divide in Mexico cannot be overstated. The American Tower investment trust defines the digital divide as the disparity in the availability and use of information and communication technologies (ICT) among different social groups. According to the firm, the lack of infrastructure, economic inequality, and insufficient education have exacerbated this phenomenon, making it a pressing issue for the country’s social and economic progress.
Women and indigenous communities are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of digital exclusion. The United Nations indicates that “girls and women today are four times less likely than men to acquire the basic digital skills that will be essential in the future” (AP). Despite women making up 51.6% of internet users in Mexico, a significant portion still lacks the necessary devices and services to connect. The National Institute of Statistics and Geography estimates that 63% of women who do not use the Internet would not know how to use it even if they had access.
A similar situation is documented among indigenous communities. According to the sixth Mobile Service Coverage Diagnosis 2022 by the Federal Telecommunications Institute, the population considered in this segment with mobile internet coverage decreased from 88% to 85% between 2018 and 2022. The organization warns that none of the 67 indigenous communities in Mexico has access to 5G networks.
Importance of Digital Inclusion
Today, new technologies are an essential resource for anyone seeking to improve their quality of life. They have become a vital factor in commercial and financial dynamics. Ensuring access to these tools and promoting their use in Mexico is essential to prevent delays in education, professional development, and economic growth.
Digital education initiatives spearheaded by the SE and Kyndryl Mexico hold immense potential in bridging this gap. These programs aim to empower women and indigenous communities by providing training and resources and fostering their participation in the digital economy. This approach not only addresses immediate educational needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term economic resilience and inclusivity, offering a hopeful vision for the future.
The impact of such programs extends beyond individual empowerment. The initiative helps create a more robust and competitive business environment by equipping small businesses with digital tools. This, in turn, contributes to broader economic stability and growth, benefiting the entire country and offering potential economic benefits.
Building a Sustainable Future
The collaboration between the SE and Kyndryl Mexico marks a significant step toward addressing the digital divide in Mexico. The program’s focus on women, Indigenous communities, and small businesses highlights its commitment to inclusivity and sustainable development. The initiative aims to create a more equitable and prosperous society by providing access to digital education and resources.
As the world becomes increasingly digital, the importance of such initiatives cannot be overstated. The SE and Kyndryl Mexico’s program, which sets a precedent for other organizations and governments to follow, demonstrates the power of collaboration in achieving these goals. It ensures that all segments of society have the skills and resources to participate in the digital economy, fostering innovation, economic growth, and social progress.
Also read: 2.3% of Jobs in Mexico at Risk of AI Automation
In conclusion, the digital education program launched by the SE and Kyndryl Mexico represents a critical effort to bridge the digital divide in Mexico. The initiative promotes sustainable economic growth and inclusivity by targeting women, indigenous communities, and small businesses. The program empowers individuals and companies through training and access to digital tools, fostering a more equitable and resilient economy. The success of this program highlights the importance of digital inclusion and sets a model for future efforts to address the digital divide.
