Smart Village Policy in Mojokerto Regency: An Analysis of Village Government Readiness in the Digital Era

Abstract

This research analyzes the implementation of the Smart Village policy in Mojokerto Regency and assesses the readiness of village governments in facing the digital era. The Smart Village concept promotes technology-based governance aligned with smart governance principles to improve service efficiency and community participation. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, the study focuses on three villages: Kaligoro, Trowulan, and Randugenengan. Data were obtained through interviews, observation, and documentation, analyzed using Miles and Huberman’s interactive model. The findings reveal that Smart Village implementation has begun through digitalization programs but remains suboptimal due to limited digital literacy, unequal ICT infrastructure, and weak institutional coordination. Supporting factors include regional policy backing, community engagement, and district government commitment. The study highlights the need to strengthen digital readiness by enhancing human resource capacity, developing ICT infrastructure, and improving institutional collaboration. In conclusion, the success of Smart Village initiatives depends on a collaborative strategy between local governments, village administrations, and communities to achieve smart, efficient, and sustainable rural governance.