The Office of the Prime Minister says that through the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), it has commenced the installation of 1,000 free Wi-Fi locations or ‘Hotspots’ along Guyana’s coast.
It was explained that this initiative, referred to as WiFiGY, seeks to provide free internet access to citizens through the WiFiGY portal. Connections will be established at public buildings, libraries, schools, health centres, markets, and other public spaces. These hotspots will be connected via Long Term Evolution (LTE) Wi-Fi equipment, and all have a coverage capability of just under 30 metres both indoors and outdoors while allowing for 100 concurrent users at each site. WiFiGY signs will be mounted at connected locations to inform citizens of their existence.
According to Prime Minister Mark Phillips, the Government is committed to bridging the digital divide. “Connections will focus on the coastland because these locations can be easily connected to the NDMA’s LTE network. However, Government will not only focus on the coast but in subsequent releases, using different types of technology, Government will seek to ensure WiFiGY connections in every region of the country.”
Meanwhile, NDMA General Manager, Christopher Deen, has been travelling along the coastland and meeting with community leaders to ascertain how best the NDMA, through this initiative, can support the regions.
“The benefit of this initiative is enormous; we are talking about positively changing people’s lives. For example, the GOAL Scholarship awardees, can visit these hotspots in their communities and attend classes, do research, submit assignments, or even write exams.”
Persons requiring more information on the work of the NDMA and other ICT initiatives can visit the NDMA’s Facebook page for daily updates, the release added.
