Bivariate Analysis of Household Access to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for Education in Somaliland: Evidence from the SLHDS 2020

<title>Abstract</title> <p> In the modern digital era, access to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is a critical determinant of human resource development and educational quality. This study investigates the determinants of internet access and the extent of the digital divide in Somaliland. Drawing on the theoretical framework of ICT access in developing nations, the research analyzed secondary data from the Somaliland Demographic and Health Survey (SLDHS) 2020, comprising a sample of 20,670 household members. Data analysis was conducted using Stata 16, employing weighted proportions and Pearson’s chi-square tests to examine socio-demographic predictors. <bold>The results</bold> reveal a low national internet access prevalence of 12.28% (weighted). A profound digital divide was identified across geographic and socioeconomic dimensions (p&lt;.001). Internet access is heavily concentrated in urban centers (12.18%) compared to rural (1.39%) and nomadic (1.11%) settings. Furthermore, a stark wealth gap exists, with 14.07% of the "Rich" quintile having access, compared to less than 1% among the poor and middle-income groups. Educational attainment emerged as a primary driver, with 28.77% of those with higher education being connected. <bold>The study concludes</bold> that internet access in Somaliland remains an elite privilege, hindered by structural barriers of poverty and inadequate rural infrastructure. The findings suggest that the government must prioritize rural ICT investment and subsidize digital access for low-income households to prevent further social and economic marginalization. </p>