This article explores the global context of the digital divide, its impact on STEM education in Mauritius, and the initiatives aimed at overcoming this divide.

In today’s digital age, access to information and technology is fundamental to progress. The worldwide shift towards Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education is impressive but highlights a growing problem – the digital divide. This divide separates those with Internet and technology access from those without, affecting STEM students worldwide.

The Global Context of the Digital Divide

The digital divide is a pervasive issue that affects communities and countries worldwide. It represents the gap between those without access to digital technology and the Internet. This divide manifests in various forms, resulting in disparities in educational opportunities, economic well-being, and overall quality of life. While developed nations typically enjoy widespread high-speed internet access, many developing countries and marginalised communities within developed countries struggle with limited or no connectivity, hindering access to digital resources.

In the context of STEM education, the digital divide is especially concerning. STEM fields rely heavily on digital resources, online research, and remote learning opportunities. Students who lack access to these tools find themselves at a significant disadvantage. The global push for STEM education holds the potential to drive innovation and economic growth, but it also has the potential to deepen existing inequalities.

The Digital Divide in Mauritius

Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is not exempt from the challenges of the digital divide. Despite being an upper-middle-income country with a rapidly evolving technology sector, disparities in digital access persist, particularly among students and youth.

In Mauritius, the digital divide takes multiple forms, including:

1. Socioeconomic Disparities: Families with limited financial resources often struggle to provide their children with access to computers and the Internet. In a country with a high cost of living, many families are forced to prioritise basic needs over digital devices and internet connectivity.
2. Geographical Barriers: Urban areas typically have better digital infrastructure, while rural and remote regions face connectivity challenges. This geographic disparity can isolate students in these areas, limiting their access to educational resources, including STEM-related materials.
3. Digital Literacy Gaps: The lack of digital literacy among parents and guardians can exacerbate the divide. Students may not have the support and guidance needed to navigate the digital world effectively, hindering their educational progress.

Impact on STEM Education in Mauritius

The digital divide poses a significant challenge to STEM education in Mauritius. STEM subjects, which require extensive research, data analysis, and collaboration, increasingly depend on online resources and digital tools. However, many students in Mauritius lack access to the Internet and suitable devices, making it difficult for them to keep pace with their digitally empowered peers.

The absence of necessary tools and connectivity can lead to:

• Limited Access to Online Resources: The digital divide restricts students’ access to crucial online resources needed for STEM education, hindering in-depth exploration of STEM topics and leaving them disadvantaged in a field reliant on the latest research and data.
• Obstacles to Virtual STEM Classes: The divide obstructs participation in virtual STEM classes and collaborative projects, which have become increasingly vital in modern education. Students without digital access miss out on these interactive learning experiences.
• Reduced Involvement in Extracurricular Activities: Students lacking digital access often cannot engage fully in STEM-related extracurricular activities. These activities provide hands-on experience and opportunities to apply classroom learning, limiting their holistic STEM education.
• Widening Digital Skills Gap: The digital divide contributes to a growing digital skills and competencies gap. In today’s job market, digital skills are essential, especially in STEM careers. Students without digital access fall behind in acquiring these crucial skills, impacting their job prospects in STEM-related fields.

Overcoming the Divide: YUVA and CFLI’s Initiative

Recognising the pressing need to bridge the digital divide and promote STEM education, organisations like YUVA Mauritius have taken a proactive stance. YUVA, in collaboration with the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), is actively implementing a STEM education initiative with a primary focus on empowering disadvantaged young girls in Mauritius. The mission is clear: to ensure that every girl has equal and equitable access to STEM education regardless of socioeconomic background.

Recognising digital access’s paramount role in the modern educational landscape, YUVA and CFLI have embarked on a journey toward creating a comprehensive digital platform. This platform is set to revolutionise STEM education accessibility, shattering the constraints and boundaries the digital divide has imposed for far too long.

The purpose is to ensure that STEM education reaches several distances, extending its reach to every corner of Mauritius. By doing so, YUVA and CFLI are not merely breaking down barriers but also equipping young girls with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive in the dynamic world of STEM. These concrete steps are crucial toward a future that is more inclusive and equitable and where every girl in Mauritius can explore, learn, and excel in STEM-related fields.

The digital divide must not hold back aspiring scientists, engineers, and mathematicians in a world where STEM education is the key to progress. With the support of CFLI, initiatives like YUVA offer hope in overcoming the digital divide and ensuring STEM education reaches all corners of Mauritius and, hopefully, the world. This journey may be challenging, but it is a journey worth taking to create a more inclusive and equitable future for STEM students everywhere.

Nicole Marchetti, MA International Relations - Communications Officer (YUVA STEM Education Projects)