An Application to Support end-users of wi-fi Hotspots in the Township of Makhanda

Having access to the Internet is a powerful resource that can change one's life, but connectivity inequality continues to be a significant issue, especially for disadvantaged communities. The usage of Wi-Fi hotspots is becoming very useful for accommodating many people living in underprivileged areas to connect to the Internet. Primarily, these hotspots get deployed in public places like hotels, restaurants, etc. This paper discusses how such a system can be made to work as a solution for disadvantaged communities considering the user base in such communities and adhering to government regulations. The research is developed in collaboration with Khula Tech Solutions ISP that provides wireless Internet services in Makhanda (formally known as Grahamstown). Khula Tech Solutions is starting an initiative of installing Wi-Fi hotspots around the township of Makhanda and needs an application that will support users of the Wi-Fi hotspots. The research's result is a proof-of-concept mobile application developed through iterative and incremental software development techniques and mobile application technologies. With this research, the hope is that it is the beginning of further work for the users to become connected citizens.