By Adewumi Omoboade

Digital technology can help countries create jobs and make scarce resources go further,” said World Bank President Ajay Banga.

Realizing that potential requires a comprehensive approach — from reliable connectivity and affordable devices to digital skills and useful services,” he added in a statement. Developing countries face a crunch with limited resources and a rising need for  employment, the Washington-headquartered institution said.

While 1.2 billion people are set to reach working age in such countries over the next 10-15 years, these economies are projected to create just 420 million or so jobs. The bank’s strategy aims to support infrastructure for connectivity and lower the cost of entry-level smartphones and broadband services.

It also wants to widen access to digital services and look into targeted uses of artificial intelligence.The bank said only 23 per cent of people in low-income countries used the Internet, a stark contrast to 94 per cent in high-income countries.