(BPD) — Gov. Arnold I. Palacios, alongside Lt. Governor David M. Apatang, officially proclaimed October 7-11, 2024, as Digital Inclusion Week in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands during a signing ceremony on September 27, 2024. The event brought together multiple stakeholders, including the CNMI Broadband Policy and Development Office, local legislators, and other community leaders. Also present was visiting NTIA federal program officer for the Pacific territories, Ethan Lake, underscoring the significance of this national week of awareness for the islands.
Digital Inclusion Week, celebrated nationwide, is an annual event organized by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance. The week highlights efforts to close the digital divide and ensure that everyone, regardless of income, location, or background, has access to affordable internet, devices, and the skills needed to use technology effectively.
What Digital Inclusion Week means for the CNMI
Digital inclusion is especially critical for the CNMI as the islands work toward ensuring that every resident has the opportunity to connect to the digital world. Governor Palacios emphasized that digital inclusion is about more than just having internet access; it means equipping residents with the knowledge and tools to fully participate in today’s digital economy and society.
The Governor’s Broadband Policy & Development Office has been at the forefront of these efforts, driving several key initiatives to advance digital equity:
1) Development of the CNMI Digital Equity Five-Year Plan. BPD has created a comprehensive roadmap that lays out a strategic approach to closing the digital divide across the CNMI. This plan, known as the CNMI Digital Equity Five-Year Plan, was developed through a rigorous process involving stakeholder engagement, community needs assessments, and asset mapping. It provides a clear vision and actionable steps to ensure that all residents, especially those in underserved areas, have access to the digital tools and opportunities necessary for success.
2) Encouraging Participation in the NTIA’s Digital Equity Competitive Grant. As part of its commitment to expanding digital inclusion, BPD has actively engaged and supported eligible entities in applying for the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program. This grant program focuses on promoting digital equity by funding initiatives that provide resources and opportunities for Covered Populations — groups most impacted by the digital divide. By encouraging local organizations to apply, BPD is working to bring more funding and support for CNMI-based digital equity initiatives.
3) Securing Additional Funding for Digital Equity Programs. The CNMI Broadband Policy & Development Office remains dedicated to pursuing further financial support to continue its digital inclusion efforts. By actively seeking additional federal and private sector funding, the office aims to expand existing programs and launch new initiatives that will equip CNMI residents with essential digital skills, affordable internet access, and opportunities for workforce development in the growing digital economy.
Through these ongoing efforts, the CNMI Broadband Policy & Development Office is helping build a stronger, more connected CNMI where every resident, no matter where they live or their economic background, can take part in the opportunities of today’s digital age.
Governor’s Broadband Bootcamp
One of the key events during Digital Inclusion Week will be the launch of the Governor’s Broadband Bootcamp, a collaborative training initiative that will kick off soon. This program is the result of partnerships between multiple community stakeholders, working together to equip local residents with essential skills in broadband deployment.
Participants will receive hands-on training in broadband infrastructure development, including laying fiber- optic cables and other technical skills crucial to building the CNMI’s digital capacity. These efforts will prepare the islands for the upcoming roll-out of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program, ensuring that the local workforce is ready to support large-scale broadband projects.
Digital Inclusion Week Student Competition
In celebration of Digital Inclusion Week, the CNMI will also be hosting a Digital Inclusion Week Competition for students across the Commonwealth, inviting participation from grades 1 through 12. More details will be announced soon, but this exciting event, a collaborative effort between the CNMI BPD Office and other key partners, will encourage students to get involved in the digital inclusion movement. By engaging our youth, this competition will inspire the next generation to explore digital opportunities and help build a more inclusive digital future for the CNMI.
Governor Palacios encourages all residents, businesses, and organizations to participate in Digital Inclusion Week and support ongoing efforts to create a more digitally inclusive CNMI. Together, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed in the digital age.
For more information on Digital Inclusion Week activities, visit CNMI BPD’s website or contact the CNMI Broadband Policy and Development Office at cnmi.bpd@gmail.com/.
Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang sign the official proclamation for Digital Inclusion Week on Sept. 27, 2024.
Gov. Arnold I. Palacios, center right, and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang, center left, stand alongside CNMI stakeholders and legislators during the proclamation for Digital Inclusion Week on Sept. 27, 2024. The event marked a significant step towards improving digital equity in the CNMI. Ethan Lake, 4th left first row, NTIA federal program officer for the Pacific territories, was present to show his support.
Ethan Lake, left, NTIA federal program officer for the Pacific territories, shakes hands with Gov. Arnold I. Palacios after the signing of the Digital Inclusion Week proclamation on Sept. 27, 2024, celebrating the CNMI’s ongoing efforts toward digital inclusion.
