Despite evidence to the contrary, the Internet is not just for checking Facebook--of all people, Mark Zuckerberg knows this. 

That’s why he’s working to empower every person in the world with Internet access within 10 years. Because the Internet has the power to change lives. 

For support, he called on world leaders in the UN to join him on this mission earlier Saturday morning. 

As he said, “If everyone has access to the tools, knowledge and opportunities of connectivity, we can give voice to the voiceless, and power to the powerless. When we’re all connected, we can achieve the global goals.”

Here’s 5 ways the Internet can be transformative

Education

Internet access helps students by opening up a vast array of learning resources, allowing peers to communicate outside of the class and introducing students to the modern economy. 

Access to information

People can look up the most updated information on a range of issues from health to nutrition to parenting and much more.

Communication

The Internet allows people to stay globally aware and connected. Especially in times of turmoil, the Internet allows people to gain support from others elsewhere in the world. 

Finance

Mobile banking is taking over the developing world because of ease of access and low fees. There’s just one hitch--internet access. Areas with spotty or nonexistent Internet access can’t use mobile banking and can’t receive the benefits that come with it. 

Work

The Internet can allow people to optimize their working conditions. Farmers, for instance, can use smartphones to measure soil conditions, check weather patterns, check market prices and learn how to best manage crops. 

Here is Mark Zuckerberg calling for internet for all: