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Mapping and auditing digital literacy of civil servants in selected South African government departments

Blessing Mbatha
University of South Africa
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Mapping and auditing digital literacy of civil servants in selected South African government departments. (2022). Communicare: Journal for Communication Studies in Africa, 34(1), 49-64. https://doi.org/10.36615/jcsa.v34i1.1621
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  • Submited: October 15, 2022
  • Published: October 17, 2022

Abstract

As digital technology becomes ubiquitous, workers will increasingly need an appropriate set of
digital skills to access and process information, using digital systems and tools. Hence, the aim
of the study was to map and audit the digital literacy of civil servants in selected South African
government departments in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). Through a survey, four government departments,
considered to be central to service delivery, were targeted. To obtain a representative sample, a
systematic sampling method was applied. Data were analysed using the SPSS statistical analysis
programme. The results suggested that not enough is being done to equip civil servants with the
digital literacy skills they require to improve service delivery. As technology changes, so does the
need for training in new technologies. Developing digital literacy in the workplace is a definite way
for businesses and organisations to increase their work productivity and creativity. It is important
to note that digital literacy is an essential requirement for effective and optimal participation in the
world’s economy. The digital era is not going to disappear, and the need for education to respond
to the growing digital tide is rapidly increasing. A digitally literate workforce is crucial if government
is serious about improving work productivity and creativity in the public sector.

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How to Cite
Mapping and auditing digital literacy of civil servants in selected South African government departments. (2022). Communicare: Journal for Communication Studies in Africa, 34(1), 49-64. https://doi.org/10.36615/jcsa.v34i1.1621

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