The United Nations, in collaboration with the Salvadoran Tourism Institute (ISTU), is championing a connectivity project in Balboa Park, El Salvador, emphasizing the transformative potential of free internet access in public spaces. The initiative is part of the Salvadoran government’s five-year plan to bridge the digital divide and enhance access to new technologies in public areas, earning international acclaim for its positive impact on society.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in El Salvador, alongside ISTU, has undertaken a project in Balboa Park, where they have formulated hypotheses and conducted measurements to assess the qualitative and quantitative impact of internet access. The project aligns with the government’s commitment to leveraging technology for societal progress.
Victor Tablas, Chief of Experimentation at El Salvador’s Acceleration Lab, explained the measurement methodology employed, utilizing a technique called synthetic controls. This method establishes a unit, in this case, Balboa Park, both before and after the implementation of free internet service, in a synthesized or cloned version.
«In simpler terms, we segmented Balboa Park into zones where visitors were notified of internet availability directly on their devices (phones, tablets, or computers), and in other areas, information was disseminated through flyers,» said Tablas.
The findings from the UNDP reveal that free internet did not act as a «magnet» to attract more tourists, but it did impact the comfort and duration of visitors’ stay. Interestingly, individuals informed about and utilizing the free internet were more likely to recommend the park to friends and family.
«Free internet didn’t act as a driving force to attract more people to the park, but it did prove to be an added value with the potential to enhance the experience for frequent visitors. It also hinted at its capacity to be utilized for improving opportunities for small businesses and their owners, though this won’t happen on its own,» added Tablas.
El Salvador’s Ministry of Innovation has spearheaded the «Conectando El Salvador» program, bringing free satellite internet to squares and parks in over 50 municipalities nationwide, benefiting thousands of people.
Based on these findings, the UNDP emphasizes that, in addition to providing internet access, efforts should focus on training and education. They underscore the importance of public investment to ensure Salvadorans can fully enjoy this valuable resource. The project highlights the significance of integrating technology initiatives with broader strategies to empower communities and foster economic development.