World WiFi day is organised annually by the Wireless Broadband Alliance to encourage cities, governments, operators and service providers to deliver connectivity to everyone everywhere. The goal is to bridge the digital divide worldwide and improve broadband access for deprived areas.
What is World WiFi Day?
Word WiFi Day is a global initiative created by the Wireless Broadband Alliance to help bridge the digital divide across the world, especially in remote and underdeveloped areas. The overall aim is to help these areas increase economic growth, improve IT literacy and better education prospects by enabling remote learning through extensive wifi installation projects.
When is World WiFi Day?
World Wi-Fi Day is celebrated globally every year on June 20th. By highlighting the importance of Wi-Fi in driving economic growth, innovation, and social inclusion, World Wi-Fi Day promotes collaboration and commitment to making the internet accessible to everyone, everywhere.
HOPE For Connectivity
The HOPE for Connectivity charter urges cities, government bodies, fixed and mobile operators, technology vendors, and Internet giants to help with bridging the digital divide. By pledging support, organisations can help fund and support Wi-Fi deployments for underserved areas, offer more affordable internet through public Wi-Fi networks, promote existing Wi-Fi initiatives, and recognise Wi-Fi’s crucial role in addressing the digital divide. This involvement is key to bringing wireless connectivity to those who need it most.
Economic and Social Impact of Wi-Fi Technology
Wi-Fi technology and solutions are a powerhouse for economic growth, contributing $3.5 trillion to the global economy today and projected to reach $5 trillion by 2025. It’s not just about money; Wi-Fi is expected to create 4 million jobs by 2025 and significantly impact major economies by adding 3.4% to their Gross Domestic Product. Commercial WiFi for business drives innovation, connectivity, and productivity, highlighting its vital role in our digital and economic landscape.
With 67% of the global population online, equating to 5.4 billion people, the digital divide remains stark, particularly in Africa, where only 37% of the population uses the Internet. Wi-Fi technology is revolutionising how we interact with the digital world, enabling remote control and monitoring of devices, enhancing IoT applications, and reducing energy waste. Wi-Fi plays a key role in reducing carbon footprints by supporting remote work, e-learning, and smart home technologies. Innovations like Wi-Fi 6 and 7 enhance network efficiency and speed, which is essential for the growing number of mobile and IoT devices. Additionally, Wi-Fi Sensing technology optimises energy use, while Wi-Fi’s role in smart city initiatives is transforming urban living by alleviating traffic congestion and improving transportation systems.
World Wi-Fi Day and its HOPE for Connectivity charter have gained support from around 100 leading industry names, including giants like Cisco and Aruba. This initiative highlights the commitment to enhancing global connectivity and bridging the digital divide by promoting universal access to Wi-Fi.
