If I were a digital application, I would be ChatGPT: Student perspectives on digital technology in Togo

Abstract

Rural West African communities, particularly in Togo, are disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change despite their minimal contribution to it. The ability to adapt to this change is dependent on access to information and resilient agricultural practices. The development of appropriate information and communication technology (ICT) solutions for subsistence farmers requires thorough contextual understanding. This qualitative study investigates Togolese university students’ perspectives on digital technologies. The study also explores the potential of these students to serve as a bridge to rural subsistence farmers in the process of co-creating digital technologies. As a part of the study, a two-day workshop was conducted, with a focus on co-creating knowledge using do-it-yourself (DIY) ICT for climate change adaptation in rural land management. The following question was posed to participants: ’If you were a technical or digital application, what would it be, and why?’ The analysis of the student responses offers insights into their perspectives on digital technologies and their potential applications for addressing climate challenges. This research contributes a methodological approach to understanding insider (emic) viewpoints from an outsider (etic) perspective to inform the development of sustainable ICT applications in rural sub-Saharan West Africa.