DICT Connects Indigenous Students in Oriental Mindoro with Free Wi-Fi, Bridging the Digital Divide
Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro – In a significant move to empower Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has extended its “Free Wi-Fi for All” program to the Ecological Public Secondary School-Arigoy Extension in Oriental Mindoro. This initiative provides vital digital access to IP students and teachers, fostering educational opportunities and bridging the digital divide.
The Ecological Public Secondary School-Arigoy Extension, serving a predominantly IP student population, previously faced challenges in accessing online resources crucial for modern learning. Limited internet connectivity hampered research, collaborative projects, and access to educational platforms. The DICT’s intervention directly addresses this issue, providing a reliable and free internet connection.
“This is a game-changer for our students and teachers,” stated a school administrator. “Access to the internet opens up a world of possibilities for learning and development. Our students can now research topics, collaborate with peers, and access a wider range of educational materials, all without the financial burden of internet costs.”
The “Free Wi-Fi for All” program is a key component of the DICT’s broader efforts to enhance digital inclusion across the Philippines. It aims to provide free internet access in public spaces, including schools, government offices, and community centers, particularly in underserved areas. The program recognizes the critical role of digital connectivity in education, economic growth, and social development.
The implementation of the free Wi-Fi at the Ecological Public Secondary School-Arigoy Extension is expected to have a ripple effect, benefiting not only the students and teachers but also the wider IP community. Parents and community members can also utilize the connection for personal and professional development, further strengthening the community’s overall resilience.
The DICT’s commitment to digital inclusion demonstrates its understanding of the transformative power of technology. By providing free internet access to IP communities, the department is investing in the future of these students and empowering them to reach their full potential. The success of this initiative serves as a model for expanding digital access to other underserved communities throughout the Philippines, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and digitally connected nation.
Further expansion of the program is planned, with the DICT actively seeking partnerships with local government units and private sector organizations to ensure the sustainability and reach of the “Free Wi-Fi for All” initiative. This collaborative approach underscores the importance of a collective effort to bridge the digital divide and unlock the potential of all Filipinos.
