This study, conducted by the Contraloría General de la República (CGR), examines persistent educational quality gaps in Colombia between 2015 and 2022, with a particular focus on the influence of technology in mitigating disparities. Using Saber 11 standardized test results as a benchmark, the study identifies gender, regional, and socioeconomic disparities that affect student performance.

Despite women comprising 56% of the sample, their average test score (255 points) is 8 points lower than men’s (263 points), highlighting a persistent gender gap in academic achievement. Regional disparities are also evident, with lower scores observed in the Caribbean (244 points), Centro Sur Amazonía (252 points), and Pacific regions (255 points). In contrast, Bogotá and Centro Oriente (272 points), as well as Eje Cafetero-Antioquia (258 points), show higher performance levels.

Among the most influential factors affecting student performance, home connectivity plays a crucial role. In underperforming regions, less than 40% of students have access to a computer and internet, significantly limiting their ability to engage in digital learning and access educational resources. This digital divide is exacerbated by institutional capacity disparities among Certified Territorial Entities (ETC), where a correlation coefficient of 0.64 demonstrates a strong relationship between institutional governance and educational outcomes.

The findings suggest that an integrated public policy approach is essential to closing educational gaps. This approach should prioritize:
1. Infrastructure development to ensure equitable access to learning environments.
2. Expansion of digital connectivity to provide equal learning opportunities.
3. Teacher training programs to enhance pedagogical effectiveness in digital education.
4. Equity-driven policies to address socioeconomic disadvantages and improve access to quality education for marginalized communities.

By leveraging technology and digital transformation, Colombia can bridge the educational quality gap, ensuring that all students, regardless of gender, geography, or socioeconomic background, have equal opportunities to achieve academic success. The Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) play a pivotal role in monitoring public investments in education, ensuring transparency, and guiding evidence-based policymaking. Addressing these gaps through a data-driven, technology-enhanced educational strategy is fundamental to achieving an equitable and efficient educational system in Colombia.

Keywords: Technology, education, digital divide, equity, public policy, Colombia.