NextBillion - An Initiative of the William Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan

By Namita Datta, Kasia Jakimowiz, Sunamika Singh

COVID-19 has accelerated efforts to rapidly develop online delivery models for learning, skills building, and mentoring. But many youth living in low bandwidth areas have no or limited access to these resources. A UNICEF joint study estimates 2.2 billion people — or two-thirds of children and young people under age 25 — do not have internet access at home. If online classes aren’t accessible to youth in rural, remote, disconnected areas, the youth will be further left behind in school and the job market.  

Different delivery models can address the bandwidth challenge and create an engaging experience while recognizing the local particularities of learners. But the nature of online delivery models depends on the level of bandwidth and the level of interaction needed between students and instructors.