Digital divide

A bar graph titled "AI Usage by Age Group" displaying the percentage of monthly AI usage and Generative AI usage for education/school across various age demographics. The x-axis lists age groups from 18-24 years to 75+ years. The green bars represent Generative AI usage for education, while the blue bars indicate monthly AI usage. The highest percentage is observed in the 18-24 age group at 69%, while the lowest percentages are in the 65-74 and 75+ age groups, showing minimal usage.
Based on: IMEC Digimeter 2023

What if you are working on a project and can use AI to achieve faster and more creative results? Sounds like a great opportunity, right?

AI is rapidly gaining popularity, especially among young people. Recent data shows that 42% of 18 to 24-year-olds use AI applications on a monthly basis. Among students, that percentage is even higher, at 49%. For many young people, AI is a powerful tool to work more efficiently during their studies. It is no surprise that 69% of young people use generative AI for their education. For them, AI is often a stepping stone to success.

Unfortunately, not everyone has the same opportunities. Some students do not have access to the right technology or do not know how to use AI effectively. Paid versions of AI applications are often more advanced and offer better features than free versions. Not everyone has access to the same tools. This creates a digital divide between those who have the technology and skills to use it effectively, and those who do not. Young people who struggle to keep up with fast technological changes may feel left out because of this.

To ensure no one falls behind, everyone needs the opportunity to learn how AI works and access the right technology. This is the only way to give people the chance to grow and succeed, regardless of their background.