Armenia’s Shaghap village is situated in a remote mountainous area. The community relied on mobile connectivity and data caps for years to provide limited internet access. Due to this, it was challenging for residents to maintain contact with the outside world, conduct business online, and complete their homework. Armenian Rural Community Built Their Own Internet.
The locals made the decision to construct their own internet in 2021, taking matters into their own hands. They laid over 18 kilometers of fiber optic cables in collaboration with the Union of Operators of Armenia, the Armenian Electronic Network, and Arpinet to connect Shaghap to the nearby village of Vedy. Additionally, they put in two more kilometers of cables inside the village to connect a number of residences and structures, including the neighborhood school.
The community now has dependable, fast internet access thanks to the project’s success. This has produced a number of advantageous effects, such as:
- Increased educational opportunities for students.
- Improved business productivity.
- Enhanced social connectivity.
- Reduced economic migration.
Other rural communities all over the world are inspired by the Shaghap project’s success. It demonstrates that, even in a remote location, it is possible to create your own internet. Anyone who is concerned about the digital divide can learn a lot from this.
Some of the most important lessons that can be drawn from the Shaghap project are listed below:
Cooperation is essential. Together with a number of partners, such as the Union of Operators of Armenia, the Armenian Electronic Network, and Arpinet, the community was able to create its own internet.
Funding is essential Public and private funding was combined to complete the project. Along with community contributions, this also included a grant from the European Union.
Technical knowledge is necessary. A group of engineers and technicians with the necessary skills were needed for the project. These professionals were able to plan and build the network and instruct the neighborhood in its use.
It’s important to remember that depending on the size, location, resources, and technological capabilities of the community, the specific steps and obstacles may differ. Engaging with local professionals and organizations with experience on related projects can offer helpful direction and support all along the way.
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The Advantages
The Shaghap project has benefited the community in a number of ways. High-speed internet is now available to students, which has increased their access to educational opportunities. Businesses are more productive because they can run their operations more efficiently online. Since people can now keep in touch with friends and family who reside around the world, the community is also more socially connected.
The Future
The Shaghap project serves as a template for other rural areas looking to develop their own internet infrastructure. The project has demonstrated that it is feasible to overcome the difficulties associated with setting up an internet network in a remote location. The neighborhood is currently working to extend the network to additional villages in the area.
What were the challenges that the community faced in building their own internet?
The community faced a number of challenges in building its own internet, including:
- The remote location of the village made it difficult to access materials and expertise.
- The network’s construction came at a high cost.
- The community had to overcome a lack of trust in technology.
How did the community overcome these challenges?
The community overcame these challenges through a combination of hard work, determination, and collaboration. They worked closely with partners, such as the Union of Operators of Armenia, the Armenian Electronic Network, and Arpinet, to secure funding and expertise. They also raised money through public and private donations.
What are the benefits of the Shaghap project?
The Shaghap project has had a number of benefits for the community, including:
- Increased educational opportunities for students.
- Improved business productivity.
- Enhanced social connectivity.
- Reduced economic migration.
