(Juba) – A major international partnership is set to transform education in conflict affected regions of South Sudan and Uganda through satellite-powered internet access, bringing unprecedented connectivity to underserved communities.
Intelsat, a global operator of satellite and terrestrial networks, has joined forces with the Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative (WPDI), founded by actor and humanitarian Forest Whitaker, to deliver high speed internet to ten Community Learning Centres—seven of them in South Sudan and three in Uganda.
Under this three year collaboration, Intelsat will supply the technology, provide managed connectivity services, oversee installation, and offer continuous technical support to the centres. The initiative aims to eliminate barriers caused by poor infrastructure, giving thousands of young people digital access to educational resources for the first time.
“Education is the foundation for peace,” said Forest Whitaker. “At WPDI, we use technology as a conduit to opportunity—bringing knowledge to young people whose lives have been upended by violence and political unrest. With the right tools, youths can reclaim their futures to become powerful agents of peace in their communities.”
This effort comes amid a growing digital divide in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions. The International Telecommunication Union reports that only around 19% of people in the least developed countries, such as South Sudan and Uganda, are internet users. In areas affected directly by conflict, that number is even lower. Lack of internet access creates major hurdles for education, employment, and community development.
WPDI will be able to offer more advanced digital learning options, including online courses, access to global information, and virtual exchange programmes by connecting its centres via satellite. These opportunities complement the existing WPDI curriculum, which focuses on conflict resolution, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment.
The initiative is expected to have long term effects. Many of WPDI’s past graduates have gone on to become influential community figures. One such example is Benson Lugwar, a former child soldier who is now a radio host and elected official in Uganda. WPDI hopes that many young South Sudanese can follow similar paths, with access to tools that allow them to build better futures.
Dave Wajsgras, CEO of Intelsat, expressed pride in the company’s involvement.
“At Intelsat, we are great believers in the power of connectivity to promote education and sustainable development around the world,” he said.
“Forest Whitaker and WPDI’s efforts represent exactly the kind of transformative work that satellite communications can enable. We’re proud to support WPDI’s efforts to bring young people together, close the digital divide, and create pathways to prosperity in communities that need it most.”
While South Sudan has long struggled with underdeveloped digital infrastructure, especially in rural and post conflict areas, the new satellite link could mark a turning point. Improved internet access is expected to enable more young people to participate in online learning, gain digital skills, and take part in broader conversations beyond their borders.
The centres will be fitted with all the necessary equipment to ensure stable internet connections, even in areas where no conventional connectivity exists. Intelsat’s managed services are designed to be robust enough to support online education and communication platforms essential for both learning and community engagement.
The cost of such technological development is significant, but crucial. The investment by Intelsat represents a substantial financial and logistical commitment to long term impact.
