Digital inequality in a developing context: A multifaceted approach

Volume editor
Nobert R Jere
Volume editor
Gardner Mwansa
Volume editor
Memory Ranga
Volume editor
Attlee M Gamundani
Volume editor
Pardon B Maoneke

Synopsis

Digital inequality in a developing context: A multifaceted approach critically explores the complex and persistent nature of the digital divide in South Africa, addressing a notable gap in existing scholarship. Drawing on secondary data, the book examines how digital inequalities manifest across key sectors such as education, healthcare, and agriculture – sectors vital to national development and individual well-being. These disparities are shaped by intersecting socio-economic, technical, and geographical factors, particularly the urban–rural divide.

The volume underscores the importance of infrastructure development, digital literacy, affordability, and equitable access as central to bridging the digital gap. It argues that without targeted and sustained interventions in these areas, digital inequality will continue to hinder socio-economic progress and deepen existing structural inequalities. This scholarly book offers fresh perspectives and practical insights for researchers, policymakers and practitioners seeking to advance digital inclusion in developing contexts.

Chapters

  • Chapter 1
    A South African perspective on the digital divide
    William T Vambe, Tanaka L Jere, Nobert R Jere
  • Chapter 2
    Digital inequalities in South African higher education: A multi-level students’ perspective
    Obert Matarirano, Misheck Musaigwa
  • Chapter 3
    Social, economic and digital inequalities among students at South African universities
    Thandokazi Mfikoyi, Sibulele Yawa, Bulelwa Mkabile-Masebe
  • Chapter 4
    Digital inequalities’ impact on pre-service teachers in South African universities
    Ntsika Dyantyi, Bulelwa Mkabile-Masebe
  • Chapter 5
    Navigating digital inequality in African higher education: Challenges and charting a path forward
    Sithandiwe Twetwa-Dube, Nosipho C Mavuso, Olukayode Oki
  • Chapter 6
    Digital divide in the agriculture sector for small-scale rural farmers in South Africa
    Agyei Fosu
  • Chapter 7
    Addressing digital inequality in rural primary healthcare systems in sub-Saharan Africa
    Olukayode Oki, Jose Lukose
  • Chapter 8
    Impact of digital inequality on service delivery in African higher education
    Courage Matobobo, Godwin P Dzvapatsva, Ricky M Ngandu, Nomputumo L Ngesimani, Hlanganani S Sibanda
  • Chapter 9
    Mitigating the unintended consequences of technology adoption in South African higher education
    Olutoyin Olaitan, Isaac O Ajao
  • Chapter 10
    Role of service providers in shaping and advancing digital services in southern Africa: A case study
    Godwin P Dzvapatsva, Courage Matobobo, Prince DN Ncube, David T Risinamhodzi
  • Chapter 11
    Disabled students’ experiences of using assistive technologies in southern African universities
    Sandra Makwembere, Obrain T Murire

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Copyright (c) 2025 Nobert R Jere, Gardner Mwansa, Memory Ranga, Attlee M Gamundani & Pardon B Maoneke (Volume editors)
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Details about this monograph

ISBN-13 (15)
978-1-991271-17-4