Mexico City, January 31, 2026 – The Digital Agency for Public Innovation (ADIP) in Mexico City has initiated a forum on the digital divide, aiming to solicit citizen experiences, opinions, and projects related to internet access and information technologies. This initiative is designed to contribute to the city’s General Development Plan (PGD).
ADIP Acknowledges Unequal Access to Technology
Ángel Augusto Tamariz Sánchez, head of ADIP, acknowledged that various technological tools are not yet democratized for Mexico City residents. He stated that the forum’s intention is to plan for the next 20 years in Mexico City.
The agency plans to host seven presentations to explore strategies for the PGD. One example includes using artificial intelligence on social media, specifically for educational content. This focus stems from the fact that 28.4 percent of residents utilize these tools for courses and workshops to enhance their education.
Internet Association Highlights Smartphone Usage and Digital Literacy Gaps
During the first presentation, Lina Elizabeth Rodríguez, president of the Mexican Internet Association, revealed that 96.5 percent of content access occurs via smartphones. However, she emphasized that this primarily indicates consumption rather than production of content that could lead to improved employability.
Rodríguez noted that only 32 percent of households in the city, particularly in peripheral areas, own a computer or laptop. Therefore, she stressed the importance of digital inclusion, encompassing literacy, AI usage, and job skills, all accessible from mobile phones.
Proposals for Bridging the Digital Divide
Among her proposals, Rodríguez suggested a ‘Digital Mentors’ program for Mexico City. This program would involve university students providing social service by digitally educating two senior citizens each, utilizing the existing ‘Pilares’ infrastructure.
Another proposition from the initial discussion panel was for the government to implement a ‘productive digitalization bond.’ This would offer tax incentives to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that certify their workforce in standard digital competencies.
Forum to Conclude with Information for General Development Plan
The forum is scheduled to conclude at 2:00 PM, with all gathered information to be compiled into minutes. These findings will then be submitted for consideration in the 2025-2045 General Development Plan.
Source: jornada.com.mx
