ABSTRACT

This study aimed to determine the extent of grassroots digital governance implementation in selected districts of Hengyang City, China, focusing on awareness levels and execution among both implementers and beneficiaries. Utilizing a mixed-method sequential explanatory design, the quantitative phase assessed participants’ awareness and implementation levels across factors such as accountability, role performance, policy support, resource development, involvement, and social governance. Data were collected from 384 participants, equally divided between implementers and beneficiaries, using a validated questionnaire. The qualitative phase identified best practices and challenges through interviews with selected participants. Quantitative findings revealed significant differences between implementers and beneficiaries in awareness levels. Beneficiaries demonstrated a stronger grasp of digital tools enhancing accountability, while implementers were more knowledgeable about financial oversight. However, both groups showed limited understanding of policy support and resource access. Qualitative analysis highlighted challenges such as digital literacy gaps, limited infrastructure, data privacy concerns, and resource constraints. Best practices included community engagement strategies and capacity-building initiatives. The study concludes that while digital governance awareness varies significantly between groups, both implementers and beneficiaries face common obstacles. Recommendations include targeted training programs to bridge knowledge gaps, improve digital literacy, and enhance the scalability and sustainability of grassroots digital governance.

Keywords: Community engagement, digital literacy, grassroot digital governance, policy support
https://doi.org/10.57180/vfed9799