Strategies to reduce the digital divide in Peru

Prado Palomino J.A.; Gómez Méndez J.; Enciso Huillca E.R.; Tenorio Alanya F.M. · Revista Venezolana de Gerencia (2025) · DOI: 10.52080/rvgluz.30.especial14.37

Resumen

Digital inclusion is a key factor for socioeconomic development in Peru; however, significant gaps persist in the access and use of information and communication technologies (ICTs). This study aims to analyze perceptions about the accessibility and quality of internet service, as well as the main obstacles faced by households, educational institutions, and SMEs in the country. A quantitative methodology was used, administering structured surveys to these three key groups, using Likert scales to assess perceptions and closed-ended and open-ended questions to obtain information on ICT use, access barriers, and digital literacy levels. Documents from national and international government and private organizations were also analyzed. The results indicate a marked difference between urban and rural areas in terms of connectivity and ICT use. While 78% of respondents in urban areas reported having a stable connection, in rural areas this percentage dropped to 35%. Likewise, 64% of SMEs use digital tools to manage their businesses, but only 29% have received formal training in digital technologies. In the educational field, 82% of the surveyed institutions have implemented digital strategies, although 47% of teachers consider their ICT training insufficient. Among the main obstacles identified are poor connectivity infrastructure (58% in rural households), high internet service costs (47%), and a lack of digital literacy programs (32%). It is essential to strengthen digital infrastructure in areas with less access, reduce connectivity costs, and promote ICT training programs tailored to the needs of each sector. These findings have implications for the design of public policies that promote digital equity and technological inclusion in Peru.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional de San Cristóbal de Huamanga