Digital Leadership at the Village Level: Opportunities and Challenges in Local Governance

Abstract

This study examines the role of digital leadership in driving digital transformation at the village level and its implications for local governance. Using a qualitative research approach involving interviews and document analysis, the findings reveal that digital leadership significantly influences the adoption of digital systems, transparency practices, and community participation in village governance. Village leaders with higher digital literacy demonstrate stronger capabilities in accelerating technological adoption, promoting innovation in public services, and fostering open communication through digital platforms. However, the study also identifies several challenges that affect the effectiveness of digital leadership, including limited digital competence among village officials, inadequate technological infrastructure, unstable internet connectivity, and restricted budget allocations for ICT development. Moreover, disparities in community digital literacy and resistance to technological change further hinder the digitalization process. The study concludes that strengthening digital leadership, improving infrastructure, and establishing supportive policies are crucial to achieving inclusive, modern, and adaptive village governance. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the dynamics of digital transformation in rural areas and highlight the need for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to ensure sustainable digital governance.