Access to the Internet, with sufficient bandwidth, is essential for the development of an information society. Lack of broadband connectivity is preventing widespread use of Internet in education and other areas of life in many developing countries. A legal and regulatory environment that fosters investment and innovation is critical to enabling broadband access. This is not just a matter of connectivity. For access to be meaningful, it must also be affordable for schools and individuals, and teachers and students must acquire digital literacy and other skills required to make best use of it.
Currently, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information (MOEYI) has identified 224 Schools across Jamaica with no source of Internet connection. Due to their rural locations, it is difficult to set up quality wifi networks in these areas from existing Internet providers. Cornerstone Jamaica has longstanding partnerships with 11 schools within Westmoreland and Hanover Parishes. Our Principals from these schools have reported that their current service is minimal and not sufficient for classroom use. They are looking for our sustainable solution to improve Internet connectivity.