The PES Institute of Technology and Management (PESITM), Shivamogga, in association with the Internet Society (ISOC), Bengaluru Chapter, inaugurated a five-day Building Wireless Community Networks (BWCN) Bootcamp. The programme, being conducted from July 13 to 17, 2026, aims to equip faculty members and professionals with practical knowledge of wireless community networking, digital inclusion, online trust, and cybersecurity.

The bootcamp was inaugurated by Dr. Shobha Shankar, President, ISOC Bengaluru Chapter; Mr. Adarsh B. U., Vice President and Program Coordinator, ISOC Bengaluru Chapter; Dr. Nagaraja R., Registrar, PES Trust; Dr. R. Sekar, Vice Principal, PESITM; and Dr. Vishnu V. M., Convener of the Bootcamp and Head of the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering.

Around 50 participants from reputed industries and higher educational institutions across Karnataka are attending the bootcamp. During the five-day programme, participants will undergo intensive hands-on training in wireless community networks, mesh networking, network planning, open-source networking technologies, Internet connectivity, deployment strategies, cybersecurity, and online trust and safety.

Dr. Swamy D. R., Principal, PESITM, said, "We are committed to connecting with industries and professional bodies. This kind of bootcamp provides valuable insights into community networking and network design and deployment."

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Shobha Shankar, President, ISOC Bengaluru Chapter, said, "A hands-on session on wireless community networking is about connecting the unconnected. I strongly believe the Internet is no longer just a necessity; it is an enabler of social connection. Bridging the digital divide begins with the motto of connecting the unconnected."

She added, "This initiative is just a stepping stone. It should serve humanity by connecting unconnected villages, to strengthen connectivity in underserved areas."

Mr. Adarsh B. U., Vice President and Program Coordinator, ISOC Bengaluru Chapter, said, "Connect the unconnected and protect the unconnected. Stabilization should be supported by strong protocols. We are looking forward to seeing how you contribute in your respective areas of specialization over the next few years."

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Nagaraja R., Registrar, PES Trust, said, "Learn, deploy, and carry this learning to classrooms and local communities. Let us stay connected as a part of our social responsibility."

Dr. Vishnu V. M., Convener of the Bootcamp and Head of the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, who proposed the vote of thanks, added, "Learning is continuous, and knowledge is limitless."