The Collins dictionary defines equitable as something fair and reasonable in a way that gives equal treatment to everyone.

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In the words of the supporting speakers: “Technology has enhanced easy access to information, enabling individuals or students to acquire new knowledge or skills regardless of their geographic location or financial status.  Technology has changed how we learn by providing various virtual opportunities, thus making quality education accessible to students even in remote areas.”.

The speakers also talked about how telemedicine has provided easy access to health care without the need to travel long distances before seeing a doctor or their health provider. In one of the articles shared by the supporting speakers, Damarin (2020) indicated that the digital divide is not solely defined by a binary distinction of having or not having access to technology but also considers the disparities in the quality and level of access among different groups or individuals. Drawing connections between this assertion and a publication by Dot’s Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, Ju-Yoon in the World Economic Forum report of 2023, it was noted that “the issue of accessibility strongly aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 10, which aims to reduce inequality,”  with technology playing a role in mitigating such disparities to a certain degree. For instance, many visually impaired individuals face challenges accessing visual digital content. However, the use of assistive technologies has helped bridge this gap to a certain level.

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The opposing side argued that the digital divide is driving a wedge into society, slowly widening the gap between achieving opportunity and utterly falling behind in a changing technologically advanced world. The speakers argued that technology has brought about more divides in gender, power, and democratic voice in areas of low economic growth, language, and little education between rural and urban areas or less industrially developed countries. According to Damarin (2020), the digital divide can manifest in various forms, including differences in access to hardware, internet connectivity, digital skills, and the ability to leverage technology for educational, social, or economic purposes. In the resources shared by the opposing speakers, there are concerns about issues with broadband becoming a basic need, and people in rural communities having issues with connectivity and safety.

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Reflecting on the state of society in the past as compared to the present, I think the issue of equality and equity will always be inevitable. But it seems the vision around these constructs has changed over time to embrace inclusion; and technology has really helped to enhance inclusion. From a personal perspective, technology has helped build the confidence of women to take up STEM courses that were always stereotyped as being for MEN. We have a lot of girls now enrolling in mathematics, computer science, and physics careers.  These changes wouldn’t have been possible without partnerships. The only way we can continue addressing the issue of equity and equality is through partnerships with various organizations and stakeholders. Well, I think technology has not really led to an equitable society but rather has enhanced the provision of equal opportunities to individuals and access to information around the world.

“Technology is essential to every company invested in the future of society and humanity. Providing equitable access to work-ready learning and skills can equip individuals in real-time and for the future of work and promote an equitable workplace.”