WBCS Report: Digital Education in Rural West Bengal – Challenges & Gaps

WBCS Report: Digital Education in Rural West Bengal – Challenges & Gaps

WBCS Report: Digital Education in Rural West Bengal – Challenges & Gaps

By Staff Reporter
Birbhum, 24 June:
The rapid shift to digital education after the COVID-19 pandemic has widened the educational gap between urban and rural students. In districts like Birbhum, Purulia, and Bankura, the lack of smartphones, internet connectivity, and electricity has made online learning a major challenge for students in remote areas.

While urban students adapted to online classes via Zoom and Google Meet, their rural counterparts struggled with basic access. Many students had to share a single device in their household, while some had none at all. Poor network coverage and lack of digital literacy among parents further worsened the situation.

Although the government distributed smartphones and launched platforms like Banglar Shiksha, their reach remained limited. Teachers also faced problems in preparing and delivering digital content.

Experts warn that without digital infrastructure and teacher training, the rural education divide will continue to grow. There is an urgent need for a blended model of education and rural e-learning initiatives to ensure inclusive growth.