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Information technology, inequality and adult literacy in developing countries

Author

Listed:
  • Simplice A. Asongu

    (Yaounde, Cameroon)

  • Nicholas M. Odhiambo

    (Pretoria, South Africa)

  • Mushfiqur Rahman

    (University of Wales, UK)

Abstract

The study assesses linkages between information technology, inequality and adult literacy in 57 developing countries for the period 2012-2016. Income inequality is measured with the Gini coefficient while six dynamics of information technology are taken on board, namely: use of virtual social network, internet access in schools, internet penetration, mobile phone penetration, fixed broadband subscription and number of personal computer users. The findings show that only internet access in schools unconditionally promote adult literacy. The corresponding inequality threshold that should not be exceeded in order for internet access in schools to continue promoting adult literacy is 0.739 of the Gini coefficient. Policy implications are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Simplice A. Asongu & Nicholas M. Odhiambo & Mushfiqur Rahman, 2023. "Information technology, inequality and adult literacy in developing countries," Working Papers 23/012, European Xtramile Centre of African Studies (EXCAS).
    • Handle: RePEc:exs:wpaper:23/012
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    information technology; inequality; adult literacy;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D10 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - General
    • D14 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - Household Saving; Personal Finance
    • D31 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - Personal Income and Wealth Distribution
    • D60 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - General
    • O30 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - General

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