AS the digital age accelerates, bringing with it revolutionary changes to the way we live, work, and connect, the Caribbean finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. The journey towards digital empowerment and economic resilience is not just a path we may choose to take; it is a necessary evolution to ensure the prosperity and competitiveness of our region in the global marketplace.

My speech at FinTech Islands 2024, titled ‘Closing the Tech Literacy Gap in the Caribbean,’ is more than just a presentation; it’s a clarion call to action for entrepreneurs, educators, policymakers, and citizens across the region. The essence of my message is simple yet profound: the key to unlocking the Caribbean’s full potential lies in bridging the digital divide that separates us from the boundless opportunities of the digital era.

This gap isn’t merely about access to technology; it’s about understanding it, mastering it, and leveraging it to drive innovation, create wealth, and improve the quality of life for all our people. It’s about transforming the way we think about education, business, and community engagement in a world where digital literacy is as fundamental as reading and writing.

The road map to a digitally literate Caribbean is multifaceted and requires a collective effort.

Recall the first time you mounted a bicycle. The mixture of excitement and nervousness, the shaky beginnings, and the unavoidable falls. This adventure mirrors our initial steps into the world of digital tools and platforms. Just as learning to ride a bike demands an understanding of balance, the digital landscape calls for foundational tech knowledge, critical thinking, and a commitment to lifelong learning. This analogy brings to light the crucial role of mentors and educators who provide the necessary support, encouraging us when we falter and helping us up when we stumble, much like someone steadying the bike for us as we learn to pedal.

Now, let’s consider the leap in complexity when operating a luxury vehicle or piloting an F-35 Lightning. These examples epitomise the pinnacle of complexity and sophistication within their domains, brimming with features that might overwhelm the untrained. Transitioning from basic digital literacy to mastering advanced technologies is akin to evolving from bicycling to driving a Rolls Royce or flying a cutting-edge jet.

Back in Canada, when online banking first debuted, the banks held workshops in the branches for over 6 months training people how to use the online services. At Apple, we used to teach people how to do mobile banking on their devices, so they got more comfortable with doing day-to-day activities.

To bridge the digital literacy gap in the Caribbean, we must commit to developing and supporting education and training initiatives that accommodate all stages of digital fluency.

By doing so, we empower individuals to not only navigate but also excel in the digital world, paving the way for our region’s prosperity in the digital era.

The tech literacy gap in the Caribbean carries significant economic and operational risks that cannot be overstated. Without addressing this gap, we face economic stagnation as businesses struggle to compete on a global scale, hindered by inefficiencies in operations and a lack of innovation. This stagnation isn’t just about missed financial gains; it’s about the missed opportunities to transform our societies and economies through digital empowerment.

Moreover, the importance of a robust digital presence in today’s economy cannot be overlooked. Caribbean businesses are particularly impacted by their limited access to e-commerce functionalities on major social media platforms, constraining their ability to reach wider markets and engage with customers online. This limitation not only curtails sales and growth prospects but also leaves our local enterprises at a disadvantage compared to their digitally savvy global counterparts. Bridging the digital literacy gap, therefore, is not just necessary — it’s urgent if we are to unlock the full potential of our region’s economy.

The Path Forward

I advocate for a decisive shift towards education and empowerment in the Caribbean, calling on companies and tech entities to embrace educational roles. My vision involves offering public training sessions, creating content that speaks directly to our unique challenges, and significantly improving staff training to boost digital literacy across the board. I stress the critical need for these initiatives to be deeply rooted in our local context, ensuring the strategies and information provided are not just relevant but truly transformative for the Caribbean.

We must also implement strategies like workshops, online resources, and community programmes, all customised to meet our region’s unique needs and challenges. I call for a united front among businesses, tech companies, and educational institutions to collaboratively foster a digitally literate Caribbean, leveraging each other’s strengths to drive meaningful change. This cooperative effort is essential for building a future where digital proficiency is not just an advantage, but a common standard.

Keron Rose is a digital strategist who works with businesses to build their digital presence and monetise their platforms. Learn more at KeronRose.com or listen to the Digipreneur FM podcast on Apple podcast, Spotify, or Google podcasts.