On Friday, October 24, 2024, an exciting new chapter in connectivity began as the Universal Service Fund (USF) officially launched one of its Community Wi-Fi sites in the vibrant town of Fowler, St. Ann. This initiative aims to transform the community by bridging the digital divide and fostering greater connectivity for all residents.

The launch event was a festive celebration, featuring a captivating performance by the talented students of Prickley Pole Primary, who moved the audience with their heartfelt rendition of “You Raise Me Up.” The air was filled with joy and anticipation as community members gathered to witness this momentous occasion.

In a powerful demonstration of commitment to education and digital equity, tablet devices were presented to Member of Parliament Lisa Hanna during the event, as part of the USF’s impactful Connect a Child Programme. This initiative highlights the Fund’s dedication to enhancing digital literacy and providing technology access to children in the region, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world.

With the launch of the Community Wi-Fi site, Fowler Town is set to become a hub of connectivity, empowering its residents to engage more fully with the world around them. This event marks a significant step towards building a more connected and informed community, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the digital age.

On Friday, October 11, 2024, the Universal Service Fund (USF) lit up Brown’s Town, St. Ann, with the launch of our Connect Ja Public Wi-Fi site in Brown’s Town, St. Ann, aiming to increase community connectivity.

Despite a sudden downpour that briefly paused the event, the atmosphere was revitalized by a lively performance from the Waterhouse Marching Band, captivating the audience and highlighting the community’s vibrant spirit, along with talented student musicians from York Castle High School.

Earlier, the Fund had already made strides in the area by establishing Community Wi-Fi sites in Thicketts, Mount Zion, Bamboo, and Brown’s Town. Now, the Brown’s Town site has been upgraded to a Public Wi-Fi location under our Connect Ja initiative, aimed at providing free Wi-Fi in parks and town centers across the country.

Additionally, during the event, tablet devices were distributed to MP Krystal Lee and MP Zavia Mayne of St. Ann South Western as part of our Connect a Child Programme. This initiative underscores the Fund’s commitment to enhancing digital literacy and technology access in the region.

Earlier that day, we unveiled a Community Wi-Fi site in Orange Hill, Brown’s Town, which was warmly embraced by residents and local stakeholders.

KINGSTON, Jamaica – September 30, 2024 — The Universal Service Fund (USF) had an exciting month, with September 2024 seeing significant strides in our mission to bridge the digital divide. 

Through our Connect a Child Programme, over 400 tablet devices were distributed to Primary Exit Profile (PEP) students who are considered high achievers and from low-income families. Therefore, ensuring that more youth have access to vital educational resources.

So far, Members of Parliament for the parishes of Kingston and St. Andrew, St. James, Manchester, St. Elizabeth, Hanover, Trelawny, St. Mary and Portland selected the deserving students to receive the tablets, with hand-over ceremonies being on the way for the remaining parishes. 

In addition to the tablet distribution, the USF proudly launched four new Community Connect Wi-Fi sites in key locations: Brandon Hill (St. Andrew West Rural), Woodhall (Clarendon North Central), Port Henderson Road (St. Catherine South Eastern), and Askenish (Hanover Western). These Wi-Fi hotspots aim to enhance internet accessibility, providing community members with the tools they need for online learning and connectivity.

Further supporting local education initiatives, Spalding Primary School received 20 desktop computers and one printer under our special programme. This initiative is designed to enhance the learning environment, equipping students with essential technology that fosters academic growth and digital literacy.

“We are committed to empowering our communities through technology and education. The distribution of tablets, the establishment of community Wi-Fi sites, and the support for Spalding Primary School reflect our ongoing mission to ensure that every child has access to the resources they need to succeed,” said USF’s Acting CEO, Mr. Andrew McRae. 

He added that the USF remains dedicated to promoting equitable access to technology across Jamaica. 

“As we continue to launch initiatives aimed at closing the digital gap, we invite community members to engage with these resources and take advantage of the opportunities they present,” Mr. McRae said