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on Information and Communication Technologies |
| By: | Ragasa, Catherine; Ma, Ning; Hami, Emmanuel |
| Abstract: | Many rural producer groups face poor management practices, low productivity, and weak market linkages. An information and communication technology (ICT)-based intervention bundle was provided to producer groups to transform them into ICT hubs, where members learn about and adopt improved management practices and increase their productivity and incomes. The intervention bundle includes phone messages and videos, promotion of the call center/hotline, and facilitation of radio listening clubs and collective marketing. The study, a cluster-randomized controlled trial, randomly assigned 59 groups into treatment groups and 59 into control groups. After 18 months of interventions, results show positive but small impact on crop sales (USD65 per household) and no impact on productivity. The income effect was mainly from Kasungu and Nkhota-kota, which experienced increased production and sales of rice, soybean, and groundnut and received higher prices due to collective marketing. Farmers in Kasungu and Nkhota-kota improved a few agricultural management practices, while farmers in other districts did not improve their management practices. Results show more farmers accessing phone messaging on agriculture and markets, greater awareness and use of the call center, more listening groups established, and more farmers—especially women—joining these groups. Nevertheless, coverage and uptake remain very low, which are likely reasons for the limited impact. |
| Keywords: | markets; Information and Communication Technologies; digital agriculture; digital extension tools; impact assessment; sales; productivity; agriculture; Malawi; Africa; Eastern Africa |
| Date: | 2024–06–30 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:fpr:gsspwp:148814 |
| By: | NEIFAR, MALIKA; Gharbi, Leila |
| Abstract: | Purpose The scope of this paper is to investigate if the information and communications technology (ICT) can improve the FinTech firm performance in the BRICS countries from monthly macro time series data during 2014M01-2022M12. Design/methodology/approach Through the Bayesian VAR-X approach and the time series DYNARDL simulation models, we investigate the impact of the ICT and its components on the firm performance for both the short-run (SR) and the long-run (LR) historical and predictive trend. Besides these regression models, this study applies the Granger Causality (GC) in quantile and the frequency domain (FD) GC tests to show more details about the causality linkage. Findings From the BVAR-X approach, historical IRFs conclude that the ICT has positive effect on PI for all countries in the SR and a positive effect in the LR only for China. From the DYNARDL simulation models, predictive IRFs results corroborate with the historical IRFs results except for the China and SA in the SR and for Brazil and India in the LR. We conclude in addition that the predictive positive relationships is driven by MCS for Brazil, IUI for China, FBS for SA, and all of the ICT components for the India case. GC type test results are in accordance with previous results. Originality The novelty of this research is based on the idea of studying the effect of the ICT on FinTech firm performance by using several time series data based dynamic technics so that we can estimate and predict the SR adjustments that arise from the impact of ICT to the LR relationship with the firm profitability. |
| Keywords: | FinTech Firm from BRICS area; Bayesian VAR-X model; DYNARDL simulation model; Historical and predictive IRFs for SR and LR effects; Granger Causality test in quantile (QGC); Frequency domain Granger causality (FDC) test |
| JEL: | C01 C11 C22 C53 D22 |
| Date: | 2025–02–25 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:123778 |
| By: | Voufo, Christiane Wendy; Gala, Priyal Mukesh; Barron Rodriguez, Maria Rebeca |
| Abstract: | his paper examines the current state of the gender digital skills divide in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), drawing on a broad set of data sources to assess disparities between men and women across key dimensions of digital readiness. The analysis explores differences in educational attainment, digital skills levels, access to digital infrastructure and devices, labor force participation, and representation in STEM and ICT fields. It also investigates the influence of gender norms—including both societal attitudes and internalized perceptions among women—on digital engagement and skills development. To contextualize regional findings, the paper compares SSA with other regions in the Global South and with High-Income Countries, highlighting both shared patterns and region-specific challenges. The assessment reveals that women and girls in SSA face persistent barriers to developing and applying digital skills, with particularly pronounced gaps in access to internet-enabled devices, digital learning opportunities, and advanced training in STEM-related fields. These disparities are further compounded by prevailing gender norms and limited exposure to female role models in the digital economy. Across most indicators, SSA lags both comparator regions and global averages, underscoring the urgency of narrowing the divide. This paper contributes to the evidence base needed to understand the scope and drivers of the gender digital skills gap in SSA and serves as a foundational input for future policy design and programmatic action. |
| Date: | 2025–06–30 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wbk:hdgewp:203094 |
| By: | Song, Myungkoo (Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade) |
| Abstract: | Roughly speaking, blockchain is a digital ledger that records transactions in a distributed database spread across multiple computers. Its decentralized nature enhances security, making blockchain-based platforms or applications highly resilient. In addition, by enabling a permanent, immutable, and transparent record of transactions, blockchain has the potential to foster trust without the need for intermediaries, especially in environments where trusted third parties are scarce. There is also growing interest in blockchain in the manufacturing sector. Manufacturers worldwide are currently navigating a complex landscape of challenges, including intense global competition, supply chain disruptions, and increasing demands for sustainability. South Korean manufacturers in particular are facing substantial headwinds due to the rise of Chinese manufacturers, global trade tensions, and a demographic crisis driven by low birth rates and an aging population. To address these challenges, firms are looking intensely at adopting emerging technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and quantum computing. Manufacturing interest in blockchain owes to the technology’s ability to enhance data integrity and foster trust among parties. Firms also view the technology as a key to unlocking innovative solutions to the aforementioned industry challenges. In this paper, I explore the growth of the blockchain industry in South Korea and examine the potential of blockchain technology in the country’s manufacturing sector. First, I examine the current state of the country’s blockchain industry and its adoption in the manufacturing sector. Next, I analyze use cases and assess how blockchain can improve competitiveness in the sector. Finally, I discuss the role of government policy in facilitating blockchain integration to strengthen the competitiveness of the manufacturing sector further. |
| Keywords: | blockchain; ICT; digital technology; cryptocurrency; industrial blockchain; Bitcoin; manufacturing; decentralization; digital ledger; South Korea; Korean blockchain; advanced digital industry; Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade; KIET |
| JEL: | L60 L63 L86 O25 O30 |
| Date: | 2025–04–30 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ris:kieter:2025_012 |
| By: | An, So Hyun (Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade) |
| Abstract: | Technological advances change the industrial environment. Due to the development of digital technology, different markets are connected in real time and information and data travels over physical boundaries of markets. On top of that, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the pace of the digital economy’s expansion. In the highly online paradigm that emerged in the pandemic’s wake, digital technology enabled firms to adopt new ways of providing goods and services. Digital transformation has since progressed rapidly across all industries. Firms now view the digital transformation not as an option, but as a prerequisite to doing business. Digital transformation creates many opportunities for microenterprises. For one, it enables them to embrace opportunities to expand their markets and create new business models. Online storefronts and digital advertising, for example, are stepping stones to accessing the global market, and modern firms sell products utilizing diverse platforms. In this process, firms are able to gain a customer base and improve efficiency. However, microenterprises still lag in terms of digital transformation in almost all areas, and we know little about how they are adapting to the digital transformation. Most microenterprises face difficulties dealing with technological barriers and high initial costs and often lack necessary digital skills. Moreover, microenterprises often fail to understand the benefits of digital transformation and are slow to invest in digital transformation and adopt digital technologies. Furthermore, the current status of digital transformation among microenterprises is not being properly monitored as OECD (2021) pointed to a substantial lack of data and analyses on digital uptake by micro-firms. In this article, I examine the importance of microenterprises in the South Korean economy and analyze some of challenges they face in their pursuit of digital transformation. I then describe some of the implications carried for microenterprise policy. Finally, I briefly examine the current status of digital transformation among microenterprises, focusing on the adoption of e-commerce technology. |
| Keywords: | e-commerce; online shopping; digital transformation; DX; microenterprises; small and medium-sized enterprises; SMEs; online retail; South Korea; Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade; KIET |
| JEL: | L81 |
| Date: | 2025–04–30 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ris:kieter:2025_015 |
| By: | Lee, Sora (Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade) |
| Abstract: | In recent years, digital transformation has emerged as the most significant issue in the Korean economy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, non-face-to-face economic activities suddenly became critical to everyday life. Around the world, people began to adapt to digital technologies that enabled remote communication and the ability to carry out daily living tasks without having to physically interact with other people. And it was at this same time that governments turned to innovation through digital transformation to revitalize economies hit hard by the pandemic. The governments of most major economies, including Korea, have been focusing heavily on digital investment. Now, several years into the trend, it is essential to assess how far Korea has come in its digital transformation journey. This study opens with a cross-country comparison, examining the current state of digital transformation in Korea and its comparable countries. It also reviews how the digital transformation is unfolding across various domestic industries and proposes a strategy for enhancing the nation’s digital maturity and competitiveness. |
| Keywords: | digital transformation; DX; AI; Internet of Things; IOT; advanced software; Industry 4.0; Korea New Deal Comprehensive Plan; South Korea; Korea Institute for Industrial Economics and Trade; KIET |
| JEL: | L86 O25 O30 O32 O38 |
| Date: | 2025–04–30 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ris:kieter:2025_013 |
| By: | Luque, Alberto Munoz Najar; Gala, Priyal Mukesh; Barron Rodriguez, Maria Rebeca |
| Abstract: | The rapid expansion of the digital economy in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) presents opportunities and challenges in addressing the gender digital skills divide. This report analyzes comprehensive, genderresponsive policy approaches to bridge this gender divide and promote equitable access to digital skills and STEM education for girls and women. Drawing on global and regional case studies, this paper emphasizes the importance of integrating digital literacy into early education, promoting inclusive STEM participation, and supporting women’s transition into the labor market through targeted interventions such as scholarships, mentorship, vocational training, and entrepreneurship programs. The report also underscores the need for reforms that dismantle gender biases in curricula, improve access to digital infrastructure, and foster inclusive learning environments. It also highlights the role of public-private partnerships and community-based initiatives in scaling impact. The proposed policies aim to enhance girls and women economic empowerment, increase their participation in the digital economy, and contribute to inclusive and sustainable development across SSA. |
| Date: | 2025–06–30 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wbk:hdgens:203095 |
| By: | Salmi, Jamil; Amegah, Alice; Shinde, Aarya Rajendra |
| Abstract: | This study explores the link between digital skills, innovation, and economic transformation in the context of Africa, focusing on the role and potential contribution of higher education institutions in the development of advanced skills for the digital transition. It documents relevant global case studies from Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America that showcase good examples of investment in skills development through higher education and their impact on innovation and economic growth. The study investigates the evolving global demand for digital skills and explores how advanced digital skills can create new economic development opportunities for Africa and help solve the big challenges faced by the subcontinent, such as food security, health threats, learning poverty, and climate change. It takes stock of existing capacities for digital skills training in Sub-Saharan Africa and proposes a bold vision for improving and expanding digital skills education programs. |
| Date: | 2025–06–30 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wbk:hdgens:203093 |