USF Continues to Provide Free Wi-Fi Access to Every Part of the Country – Minister Vaz

Minister of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport, Hon. Daryl Vaz, says the Universal Service Fund (USF) continues to be instrumental in providing free Wi-Fi access to every part of Jamaica, including remote rural areas.

Speaking to stakeholders, including residents, business interests and local officials at the commissioning of free Wi-Fi service in St. Ann’s Bay, St. Ann, on January 26, Minister Vaz highlighted the transformative power of the Internet and the significance of universal connectivity in fostering progress and development.

He commended the USF for its dedicated efforts in bridging the digital divide and ensuring that no corner of Jamaica is left behind in the digital era.

“It is indeed a pleasure to join the USF in the garden parish of St. Ann as it launches another public Wi-Fi hotspot for our citizens. This launch in rural Jamaica is a significant milestone to the realm of connectivity and communication,” Mr. Vaz said.

“Today we continue the journey to transform the way we live, work, and connect with each other. In an era where information is key to progress, access to the Internet has become a fundamental right, and so today, we take a giant leap forward in ensuring that this right is accessible to all. The commissioning of this public Wi-Fi in St. Ann’s Bay is a testament to the Government’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and technologically connected society,” he added.

The Minister also spoke about Jamaica being a part of an “international highway” facilitated by widespread internet access, emphasising the potential for economic growth, educational advancement, and enhanced communication that comes with universal connectivity.

He further stressed that the availability of free Wi-Fi in even the most remote area of Jamaica is a testament to the Government’s commitment to leveraging technology for the benefit of all citizens.

“What we are basically seeing, and what is evidenced by what’s happening here today in St. Ann’s Bay, is the Government’s vision for a digitally inclusive Jamaica, where access to the Internet is not limited by geographical location. The strides made by the USF in providing free Wi-Fi access across the nation align with this vision, reflecting a commitment to leveraging technology to empower communities and drive progress,” Mr. Vaz explained.

“What we are also seeing is a promising trajectory for Jamaica’s technological advancement and the potential for enhanced connectivity to spur overall societal and economic development,” he added.

Mr. Vaz said that it is to this end that the Government remains resolute to provide universal access to internet services, and that the USF is on a mission to enable a digital society through universal access to the Internet and digital inclusion, adding that the thrust is being realised through the Connect Jamaica (Public Wi-Fi) programme; Community Wi-Fi Initiative; and the Community Access Points programme.

The Minister noted that, through the USF, connectivity has been provided to three sites to support the disabled community. They are The McCam Child Care and Development Centre, Salvation Army School for the Blind, and the Portmore Self-Help Disability Organisation.

“The vulnerable and disabled must also be given the tools to thrive in this digital society. Their connectivity to support educational and business pursuits is, therefore, a must,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Minister explained that the USF Connect-JA public Wi-Fi initiative is geared towards providing free Wi-Fi internet access in major town centres, public green spaces, and parks across the island.

“Partnerships will also be forged with tourism-sector interests to provide technical and other support for the establishment of public Wi-Fi sites in resort towns and tourist and historic sites,” he said.