Third year CDT PhD candidate Yang Bong is researching rural microenterprises in developing nations – examining work organisation, situated actions, and broader structures to guide digital marketplace design.
During Yang’s PhD fieldwork, two community-based workshops were arranged in Sarawak, Malaysia, with the objective of improving digital literacy and e-commerce abilities among rural microentrepreneurs. Funded by the School of Computer Science’s Impact Fund, 33 participants took part in the two workshops that were held in collaboration with local communities at the Bengoh Resettlement Scheme in Kuching on January 20th and at Bawang Assan in Sibu on January 29th, 2024.
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In addition to the research conducted, the workshops provided a unique platform for meaningful interactions among rural entrepreneurs, digital platform providers and government personnel. These discussions have the potential to greatly enhance the usability and accessibility of digital platforms in rural areas, fostering a more inclusive digital economy.
The outcomes of these workshops will contribute to Yang’s PhD research on the design implications of digital marketplaces for rural microenterprises. We are excited about the positive impact these workshops have had and look forward to continuing efforts in bridging the digital divide in rural areas.
You can read more about Yang’s research project on his Research Highlights page.
Tags: digital literacy, digital marketplaces, e-commerce, Impact Fund, inclusive digital economy
