BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 4. Tajikistan can facilitate the transition to a digital economy and reduce inequity by investing in improved connectivity, hardware, and software, Trend reports via the latest outlook of the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
“Disadvantaged groups will benefit from access to digital connectivity, hardware, and software. Funds can be allocated to facilitate access for girls through gender-sensitive digital literacy campaigns and by improving internet access for low-income households,” the report said.
Furthermore, ADB suggested that targeted subsidies could make internet subscription plans more affordable. The launch of programming and coding courses for youth in remote areas could enhance their job prospects at home, thereby reducing labor migration to other countries.
According to the bank, only 44 percent of households in Tajikistan had mobile broadband subscriptions in 2021 and only one-third of the population uses mobile internet, which results in a setback for Tajikistan’s digital economy development.
Asian Development Bank was founded in 1966 and is jointly owned by 68 member countries. Since Tajikistan joined ADB in 1998, the bank has become the country’s largest development partner, with more than $2.2 billion in total assistance.