Empowering Working Children Through Digital Learning: A Community‐Driven Approach to Reducing Child Labor, Economic Loss, and Social Disruptions

ABSTRACT Child labor remains a persistent global challenge that affects learning, productivity, and long‐term economic growth, particularly in low‐income and conflict‐affected regions. This study integrates cross‐country data sets, regression analyses, and a comparative case study to examine how community‐driven, hybrid digital learning models can mitigate the educational and economic consequences faced by working children. Results show that child labor is strongly associated with lower school attainment, reduced national productivity, and increased social vulnerability. Countries that leverage community networks and low‐cost digital interventions demonstrate measurable improvements in participation, resilience, and learning outcomes among working children. The study proposes a scalable framework that combines community engagement, digital access, and policy integration to reduce learning losses and enhance long‐term economic stability. By bridging economic, social, and educational perspectives, this paper offers a holistic model that addresses gaps in existing research and supports more equitable learning pathways for working children.