In collaboration with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) - CAR, Kalinga State University hosted the awarding of Starlink Kits to the 27 eligible Barangays in the Province of Kalinga and Training on the setup, including installation, and maintenance of Low Orbit (STARLINK) Wifi to the said beneficiaries. The event held today, February 04, 2025, at the RnD Hall, Bulanao Campus.

The program mainly focused on the distributions of the Starlink Units to the beneficiaries and the conduct Low Earth Orbit Satellite training (setting up, installation and maintenance) of Free Wifi to the selected Barangays.

In her welcome remarks, Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor, University President, represented by Dr. Paulino Reyes II, Vice President for Administration and Finance, explained that access to the internet has become an essential part of our daily lives. We use it for learning, communication, and even entertainment. However, in some pars of the world, including rural and remote areas, internet access has remained a challenge.

Dr. Reyes also emphasized the benefits of Starlink and its ability to provide high speed internet to places where it’s difficult to lay down cables or build towers, whether in remote areas or mountainous region.

Hon. James S. Edduba, Provincial Governor said that this is an essential step toward empowering the people with the knowledge and skills to manage and upkeep this essential technology. It is a tool that strengthens education, enhances communication, support governance and most importantly improves essential services such as healthcare and disaster response.

“Through the DICT’s Free Wifi Program, we are taking significant steps to ensure that even our most remote communities are not left behind. These Starlink installation will enhance connectivity in areas where traditional internet infrastructure has struggled to reach,” Governor Edduba added.

Part of the program was the signing of Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between DICT and the College of Engineering and Information Technology – Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering (BSCpE). The MOA aims to provide students of the BSCpE program with On-the-Job Training (OJT) opportunities in DICT-CAR’s various program and projects within the Province of Kalinga and to promote knowledge sharing and capability building to ensure academic and industry alignment.