Digital Divide and Financially Marginalized Communities: Strategies for Implementation of NEP 2020

Abstract

The advent of the digital age has brought unprecedented opportunities for education, yet it has also exacerbated the digital divide, disproportionately affecting financially marginalized communities. This research paper delves into the intersection of the digital divide and financially marginalized communities within the framework of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 in India. The study investigates strategies for implementing NEP 2020 to bridge the digital gap and ensure equitable access to educational opportunities for these communities. Drawing upon existing literature and empirical evidence, this paper delineates the multifaceted nature of the digital divide, encompassing factors such as access to technology, digital literacy, and connectivity challenges faced by financially marginalized communities. It critically examines the provisions and objectives of NEP 2020 related to digital education, analyzing their potential to address the digital disparities among marginalized groups. Furthermore, this research scrutinizes innovative approaches and best practices for implementing digital initiatives under NEP 2020, including the deployment of digital infrastructure in underserved areas, tailored digital literacy programs, and community engagement strategies. It explores the role of government policies, private sector partnerships, and civil society initiatives in leveraging technology to empower financially marginalized communities in education. Additionally, the paper discusses the challenges and barriers hindering the effective implementation of digital inclusion strategies under NEP 2020, such as affordability issues, cultural barriers, and infrastructural limitations. Through a comprehensive analysis, this study aims to provide insights and recommendations for policymakers, educators, and stakeholders to design and implement sustainable strategies for bridging the digital divide and fostering digital equity among financially marginalized communities in the context of NEP 2020.