Nowadays, science and technology have pivotal role in social, economic and political aspects. The proliferation of social media sites has transformed the world into a small village. Beyond facilitating business, connecting communities, families and friends, strengthening diplomacy and other advantages, digital technology has crucial contribution in tackling pandemics like COVID-19. Harnessing the technology in containing the pandemic China has showcased an incredible outcome.
According to CNN, more than 180 million school children in China have continued their education using technology. This was done through a variety of online and electronics technology.
When we come to Ethiopia’s digital technology, especially, social media is playing vigorous part in creating awareness in different parts of the country, according to Eyob Adane, Lecturer of Computer Science at Addis Ababa University.
‘‘People especially the youth have good participation in social media. According to our recent research, most people in Ethiopia use Facebook. There are also a significant number of YouTube and telegram users. They use these social media sites as outlets for information sharing. The sites afford them ample opportunities to express their social and political view as well,’’ he insists. Adding: “concerning COVID-19, basic updates and instructions have been disseminated through social media. Hence, those who live in urban centers and areas which have internet access are getting fed with important information.’’
However, the accessibility and affordability of internet service have been challenging in many parts of the country, Eyob expresses his concern.
‘’Ethiopia needs to expand a fair and fast broadband internet service. Updating people with timely information using social media is vital in fighting COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, governmental and non-governmental organizations, religious institutions, activists and other parts of societies are sharing information using Facebook and other social media outlets. But additional tasks are needed to provide broadband internet for all,’’ the lecturer highlights.
For her part, Hanna Ashenafi, anti-corona, activist from Addis Ababa says that though the awareness creation activities are encouraging, online business remains a huge gap in the country.
‘‘We are still lagging behind in terms of using digital technology for business purposes. Most of us spend our time on chatting and posting pictures. This trend should be changed. We have to use it for combating pandemics and making business,’’ she states.
She underscores the contribution of online applications like Google play and Apple store in combating the pandemic. But there is limitation in showing people how to download and use apps .Technologists are not playing their part as much as they can in this regard.
In addition to this, online shopping, distribution, promotion, consultation and education service are still at their embryonic stages in Ethiopia and this should be improved as e-technology has huge role in rescuing the economy during critical times like the COVID-19 pandemic, according to her.
Internet service should be upgraded and expanded. Lack of financial and lack of skilled human power are hampering the development of digital technology. Therefore, government and private investors should engage in this sector.
Finally, Hanna urged government bodies, civil societies, media activists and other stakeholders should create a common platform which helps them to share ideas, experiences and daily updates to contain the pandemic.
The Ethiopian Herald May 2/2020
BY TSEGAY HAGOS
