Closing the Digital Gap in Rural Communities

In some places, the internet is just part of life. But in others, it still feels far away.

Across rural parts of Spain and countries like México, Colombia, Peru, and Argentina, millions of people face a digital divide – they don’t have easy access to Wi-Fi, devices, or the skills to use them. This invisible barrier is often called the digital wall.

And when you’re on the wrong side of that wall, it’s harder to access government services, get the latest learning materials, higher online education; or even get the news and stay connected to others.

The good news? Many communities are already doing something about it.

What Does the Digital Divide Look Like?

In remote areas, the digital gap shows up in simple but serious ways:

• Some homes still don’t have internet.
• Many families share one old device, or don’t have one at all.
• People miss out on developing basic digital skills such as using web browsers, sending an email or looking for information.
• Government services are online, but not everyone can reach them.

We tend to believe that the digital wall is not an issue that affects larger segments of the population in developing countries or in European countries. However, statistics show that it is. 

How Governments and Communities Are Closing the Gap

Across Spain and Latin America, people are working together to break down the digital wall and close the digital divide.

1. Public Wi-Fi That Reaches Everyone

Spain’s Plan ÚNICO is investing millions to bring high-speed internet to all corners of the country, especially rural towns in 38 provinces.³

In Colombia, the Centros Digitales program is setting up thousands of free internet spots in remote schools, colleges and community centres.⁴

2. Digital Training for Everyday Life

Many municipalities run free workshops to teach basic digital skills: how to fill out forms online, use a mobile app, or check medical results.

In Chile, the BiblioRedes program offers digital skills training through public libraries, focusing on seniors and low-income families learn how to browse safely, use messaging apps, and apply for jobs.⁵

In Ecuador, the Skills for the Future program, promoted by FAO, Microsoft, and EIDOS, offers virtual and free training in digital and life skills to instructors in rural areas - who then pass this knowledge on to their communities.⁶

3. Shared Devices in Public Spaces

Not everyone needs their own laptop, tablet or phone to stay connected. Some towns are using shared tablets in libraries, clinics, and town halls.

These devices let people:

• Access learning tools and apps
• Apply for social services online
• Read digital newspapers
• Watch health videos in their own language

Read: Shared tablets in Melody School, Guatemala

Why This Work Matters

When people are digitally included, they feel more connected and empowered. For municipalities, this also means:

• Fewer people falling behind
• Easier access to public services
• More engagement in local decisions

One World Bank study showed that increasing broadband access by just 10% can grow a country’s economy by over 1%.⁷ 

That’s a big impact just from better access.

Tools That Can Help Right Now

Big infrastructure takes time. But small, smart tools can make a big difference today in closing the digital gap:

• Shared tablets are available in libraries, health centres, and senior clubs. These are set up with only the apps people need, like language tools, job search platforms, and government service portals.
• Self-service lending stations that let people borrow tablets or laptops safely. These often include automatic data wipes and time limits to ensure fair use.
• Secure public Wi-Fi access in town halls and clinics with built-in content filters to keep browsing safe for kids and older users.
• Mobile digital classrooms, like vans or carts equipped with devices and Wi-Fi that travel to remote villages or schools once a week.
• Multi-user devices with user profiles, which allow different people to log in securely and see their own content in their own language.

These tools are not expensive or complex, but they are designed for public use. They keep people safe online, protect personal information, and work well even without strong tech support.

Hublet shared tablets with a self-service Hublet Dock station

Final Thoughts: Inclusion Starts Small

The digital wall isn’t unbreakable. And the digital divide doesn’t have to be permanent. It just takes teamwork and the right tools.

From the mountains of Spain to the farmlands of Latin America, communities are showing that small steps; shared tools, training, and teamwork can help close the digital gap.

Every time a new person logs on, learns a skill, or finds what they need online, that wall gets lower.