Assistance to improve internet connectivity
TO improve access to secure, fast, and affordable internet connectivity in the region, the US government, through the US Agency for International Development (USAID), plans to expand safe, digital coverage across the Blue Pacific Continent.
The USAID’s Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership (DCCP) — Pacific project, is collaborating with partners such as the Asia Open Radio Access Network (RAN) Academy and USAID Indo-Pacific Opportunity Project to develop curriculum for regional universities to build workforce capacity and support assessment, testing and deployment of the Open RAN technology.
A statement from USAID said the technology would enable multiple telecommunications providers to be able to work together and collectively establish seamless connectivity covering areas where traditional communication infrastructure was limited.
With an equipped workforce, universities, governments, and the private sector will be able to expand connectivity to remote islands and low-populated areas, creating more jobs for Pacific Islanders in the industry.
This technology comes with lower deployment and operational costs thereby increasing access and connectivity for Pacific Islanders at competitive rates for newer services such as 5G.
USAID Pacific Islands mission director Zema Semunegus said better connections between different service providers would promote inclusivity and boost the digital and cybersecurity landscape in the Pacific.
“Aligned with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, this collaboration supports a more secure, dynamic, and resilient Pacific in terms of digital connectivity and cybersecurity,” she said.
USAID DCCP-Pacific chief of party Anju Mangal said the partnership marked a significant stride towards transforming the digital landscape in the Pacific.
“We believe that fostering an open, interoperable, and secure digital ecosystem is crucial for the sustained growth and resilience of the Pacific region,” Asia Open RAN Academy chairperson Achie Atienza said.
“This collaboration reflects our commitment in the Pacific in advancing digital connectivity and cybersecurity in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.”