The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) granted temporary access to spectrum to the Navajo Nation in order to help the nation’s broadband internet use during the pandemic.
“This additional spectrum should help the leaders of the Navajo Nation meet the needs of its people during this challenging time,” said FCC Chairman Ajit Pai.
Navajo Nation President Johnathan Nez submitted a request to the FCC for all available 2.5 Ghz Educational Broadband Spectrum for a 60 day period. In the request, Nez said that K-12 public schools have closed and that colleges are also transitioning to online courses.
“We have become concerned for our student’s education as it may be compromised due to the lack of internet access throughout the Navajo Nation,” said the letter, signed by Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer. “The 2.5 Ghz EBS Spectrum can enable our service providers to increase capacity and ensure consumer and student needs are met.”
The FCC recently added Christopher Becenti to the commission’s Native Nations Communications Task Force.
