Community Wi-Fi Service Launched in Dalvey, St. Thomas

The more than 4,000 residents of Dalvey in St. Thomas can now access free and safe community Wi-Fi to improve their quality of life, thanks to the Universal Service Fund (USF).

The Wi-Fi hotspot was launched in Dalvey square on Thursday (February 6), bringing the total number of communities benefiting from this USF initiative to well over 320.

Newly minted USF Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Charlton McFarlane, said the entity regards these Wi-Fi launches as more than just connecting a community, but also, “as improving the lives of students through access to endless educational resources”.

“The truth is, when we connect a community… we see it as connecting entrepreneurs [and] unearthing the entrepreneurs who can use the Internet to access new resources,” the CEO stated.

He said consequent on the hundreds of community Wi-Fi hotspots established, so far, “I’m sure we have since inspired some persons to be bloggers or YouTubers; and my favourite part is… connecting families [and] connecting people here and within the diaspora.”

Mr. McFarlane implored the residents to take pride in the infrastructure, emphasising that, “it is your responsibility to keep it safe”.

For her part, Member of Parliament (MP) for St. Thomas Eastern, Dr. Michelle Charles, expressed gratitude for the service established in Dalvey, which is the fifth community Wi-Fi hotspot to be launched in the constituency.

She thanked the USF for its steadfast support and sponsorship of the initiative, pointing out that, “their dedication to enhancing connectivity across Jamaica has been instrumental in making [Thursday’s] event possible; and it shows us that we have a Government that cares for you”.

Dr. Charles reasoned that access to reliable internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity, noting that it serves as a gateway to a world of possibilities.

These, she said, include educational opportunities where students can access a wealth of resources, participate in virtual classrooms and connect with global classmates.

Additionally, Dr. Charles said from an economic standpoint, entrepreneurs and small business owners in Dalvey can now reach broader markets, engage in commerce and utilise digital tools to enhance their operations.

There is also improved access to healthcare through opportunities such as telemedicine, the MP further stated.

“This community Wi-Fi will benefit all ages,” Dr. Charles said, while giving Dalvey’s undertaking to take care of the equipment.

Following the launch ceremony, a sign denoting the presence of the community Wi-Fi was unveiled by Mr. McFarlane, Dr. Charles and other stakeholders.