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Eduroam Brings Off-Campus WiFi to Joburg’s Public Libraries
Students and staff from public universities in South Africa can now connect to free WiFi at 36 libraries across Johannesburg, thanks to a new partnership that extends campus-level internet access into community spaces.
This move is part of a collaboration between Wits University, the City of Johannesburg (CoJ), and the Tertiary Education and Research Network of South Africa (TENET). The project, launched ahead of the 2025 academic year, uses the global Eduroam network to offer seamless and secure connectivity off-campus.
The rollout brings a major digital boost for students who struggle with reliable internet access at home. “By bringing Eduroam to libraries, we are making a tangible difference in access to educational resources,” said Dr Stanley Mpofu, Chief Information Officer at Wits and Chair of HEITSA, which represents all 26 public universities in South Africa.
How it works: access for all public university students and staff
Students, researchers, and academic staff from any public university can use the free service by downloading the “geteduroam” app from their preferred app store. After installing the app, users need to log in using their institutional email and password.
Once connected, the system provides a secure, fast internet connection — the same quality users would experience on campus. The service supports online learning, research, and academic collaboration even beyond university grounds.
A citywide academic support network
The 36 participating libraries are spread across Johannesburg, covering various suburbs and communities. Locations include:
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Library Gardens in the city centre
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Randburg, Roodepoort, Sandton, and Rosebank Public Libraries
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Township areas such as Ivory Park, Phiri, Pimville, Emndeni, and Eldorado Park
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Suburban libraries including Bryanston, Parkhurst, and Linden
This distribution ensures that a wide range of students — from township dwellers to suburban residents — can benefit from the initiative.
Digital access and equality
The initiative is expected to help bridge the digital divide affecting many students, particularly those who lack home internet. It also opens new possibilities for those working remotely or needing quiet study spaces outside campus.
Mpofu highlighted that the partnership is an example of public institutions coming together to address real challenges facing students. “This rollout supports learning, teaching, and research beyond the traditional campus setting,” he said.
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Sourced:IOL
Picture: Wits
