KINGSTON, Jamaica — Port Royal, once celebrated as the world’s wealthiest and most notorious city, has now embarked on a transformative journey into the digital era. The Universal Service Fund (USF) has officially inaugurated free public Wi-Fi services at Port Royal Primary School under the visionary theme “USF Connects Legacy.”
The landmark event on Friday, March 27, gathered students, community residents, local leaders, and stakeholders for a vibrant celebration marked by interactive engagements and educational giveaways. This initiative represents a significant milestone in bridging the digital divide within one of Jamaica’s most culturally rich communities.
USF Chief Executive Officer Charlton McFarlane emphasized the project’s dual purpose during his ceremonial address. “While Port Royal remains deeply rooted in history, it equally deserves future-ready connectivity,” McFarlane stated. “This Wi-Fi infrastructure will unlock new educational and economic opportunities—enabling students to access digital learning resources while empowering local businesses to expand their reach through online promotion and digital payment systems.”
The newly deployed network features 25 strategic access points capable of supporting up to 500 concurrent users, delivering reliable internet access to both the school and surrounding community. This implementation aligns with USF’s broader mandate to ensure technological inclusion across all Jamaican communities, regardless of geographical constraints.
Member of Parliament for Kingston Eastern and Port Royal, Phillip Paulwell, endorsed the development as a catalyst for community growth. “This represents the most extensive facility of its kind in East Kingston,” Paulwell noted. “Its significance cannot be overstated for the people of Port Royal.”
The USF Connects Legacy initiative demonstrates the organization’s sustained commitment to leveraging technology as a tool for community empowerment, ensuring Jamaica’s historic towns remain dynamically connected while preserving their unique cultural heritage.