CITIZENS’ DIGITAL COMPETENCE TO MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF A LEARNING SOCIETY

In the context of national digital transformation and developing a learning society, citizens’ digital competence - particularly among direct agricultural workers and local managers - plays a decisive role in fostering social inclusion and sustainable development. This study aims to assess the current state of citizens’ digital competence, focusing on workers in the agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sectors (Group 06) and commune-level managers in Vietnam, and is grounded in the European Digital Competence Framework (DigComp). Survey data was gathered from 510 participants across Nghe An, Quang Tri, and Ho Chi Minh City using a standardized questionnaire. Findings indicate that overall digital competence is at a moderate level. Citizens demonstrate relative proficiency in information literacy and digital communication, yet face substantial barriers in digital content creation and problem solving. ANOVA analyses confirm a multidimensional digital divide significantly driven by educational attainment, occupation, age, and geographical location, whereas gender shows no meaningful effect. Based on these findings, the article proposes solutions to improve digital competence, narrow the digital divide, promote lifelong learning, and build a learning society.