Universal Service Fund Elevates Digital Access with New Connect Ja Public Wi-Fi in Brown’s Town, St Ann
In a significant stride towards bridging the digital divide in Jamaica, the Universal Service Fund (USF) launched its latest Connect Ja Public Wi-Fi site in Brown’s Town, St Ann, on Friday. This development is part of the USF’s broader mission to enrich Jamaica’s digital landscape, thereby creating avenues for education, economic growth, and enhanced communication across the island.
Held on bustling Main Street, the launch event was marked by vibrant performances from the Waterhouse Marching Band and talented student musicians from York Castle High School. The occasion celebrated not only the introduction of the new Wi-Fi site but also the progress made by USF in enhancing digital access in various communities, including previous Wi-Fi installations in Thicketts, Mount Zion, Bamboo, and Brown’s Town.
The Brown’s Town upgrade to a Public Wi-Fi location signifies a key step in USF’s Connect Ja initiative, designed to extend free Wi-Fi availability in parks and town centers nationwide. Speaking at the event, Member of Parliament for St Ann North Western, Krystal Lee, lauded the initiative, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize access to information, education, and economic opportunities in the community.
"This initiative will significantly benefit our community by improving access to information, education, and economic opportunities. I commend the USF for their dedication to bridging the digital divide in Jamaica,” expressed Lee.
Andrew McRae, acting CEO of USF, highlighted the evolving digital landscape and the essential role internet access plays. He remarked, “With this upgraded Wi-Fi service, residents will have the tools to explore new opportunities, access information, and connect with each other like never before.”
Further enhancing digital literacy, the event also saw the distribution of ten tablet devices each to Krystal Lee and Zavia Mayne under USF’s Connect a Child Programme—reinforcing the government’s commitment to improving technological access in the region.
Earlier that day, the USF introduced another Community Wi-Fi site in Orange Hill, Brown’s Town, met with enthusiastic support from residents and local stakeholders. This continued expansion marks an islandwide effort with 20 sites already operational under the Connect Ja initiative, which aims to foster innovation and stimulate economic growth across Jamaica.
The USF’s initiative is a testament to Jamaica’s dedication to embracing the digital revolution, ensuring that its citizens are equipped to thrive in an increasingly connected world.
