Egyptian business leader Matta Beshai has highlighted the growing issue of digital illiteracy as a significant barrier to accessing government support programs and services. As the country continues to digitize its services, Beshai, head of the Internal Trade Committee at the Egyptian Federation of Chambers of Commerce, emphasized that this shift must not exclude those who need assistance the most. With around 4.7 million families, or approximately 17 million citizens, currently benefiting from the "Takaful and Karama" program, addressing this issue is of utmost importance.
The problem of digital illiteracy extends beyond the lack of access to smartphones or internet connectivity. It also encompasses the ability to create accounts, enter data accurately, use passwords, upload documents, track application status, and interact with electronic messages and notifications. These skills can be a significant obstacle for some eligible individuals, particularly among low-income households and the elderly. Beshai stressed that it is crucial to design government services based on the principle of "inclusive digitization," taking into account the varying levels of digital literacy among citizens.
To overcome this challenge, Beshai recommended expanding the availability of digital assistance points at government service offices, post offices, local units, and service centers. He also suggested training staff and volunteers to help citizens with registration and inquiry procedures, as well as providing user-friendly electronic interfaces in Arabic and effective support lines for answering queries. By offering alternative channels for assistance, the government can ensure a more equitable transition to a digital economy.
The "Takaful and Karama" program, which targets low-income families and those most in need, has made significant strides in developing its support and social protection systems. However, Beshai emphasized that the next phase requires linking digital transformation to digital literacy programs. This involves not only providing devices or internet access but also training citizens to use digital services safely and effectively, ultimately enhancing financial and social inclusion.
According to Beshai, the success of digital support systems should not be measured solely by the number of services converted to electronic platforms. Rather, it should be evaluated by the ability of eligible citizens, regardless of their educational background or technical expertise, to access and utilize these services easily and securely. The goal is to ensure that support reaches those who need it most with minimal complexity.
The Egyptian government has made notable progress in developing its social protection and support systems. The "Takaful and Karama" program, which is overseen by the Ministry of Social Solidarity, currently serves around 4.7 million families. Beshai's comments highlight the need for continued efforts to address the challenges posed by digital illiteracy and ensure that the benefits of digitization are accessible to all.
Ultimately, addressing the issue of digital illiteracy will require a concerted effort from the government, private sector, and civil society. By prioritizing digital literacy and providing support for those who need it, Egypt can ensure that its digital transformation is inclusive and equitable, and that all citizens have access to the services and support they need to thrive.
Key points
- Digital illiteracy is a significant barrier to accessing government support programs in Egypt.
- The "Takaful and Karama" program currently serves around 4.7 million families, or approximately 17 million citizens.
- Addressing digital illiteracy requires a comprehensive approach, including digital literacy programs and user-friendly electronic interfaces.
