Digital Inequality in the Post-Pandemic Era: Evaluating the Role of Internet Access in Achieving Quality Education (SDG 4) and Reducing Inequalities (SDG 10) in Pakistan

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased the level of awareness and visibility of existing digital inequalities in Pakistan, thus creating unprecedented disruptions in education and exacerbating previously existing socio-economic inequities. The purpose of this research paper is to identify Internet Access as a necessary factor for achieving the goals of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 Quality Education and SDG 10 Reduced Inequalities in the post COVID-19 era in Pakistan. Based on secondary data from government sources, international organizations (ITU, UNESCO, UNDP, World Bank), and academic journals, this study conducts a systematic review of the literature. In addition, this study conducts a multi-dimensional assessment of the digital divide by identifying four primary dimensions: access, affordability, digital literacy, and relevant content. The effects of these four dimensions are assessed to determine how they compound each other. The results disclose that the rapid, compulsory transition to remote learning during the lockdowns works in all areas.