(Ecofin Agency) - Rwanda will bring satellite internet to schools in remote areas in the framework of its ambition to let Rwandans take advantage of the opportunities offered by internet in learning and socio-economic development.

In that regard, it will rely on Oneweb’s satellite launched on February 27, 2019. The first school to access this satellite internet is St Pierre Nkombo secondary school.

According to Paula Ingabire, the country’s IT minister, satellite internet is a good opportunity because about $2 billion would have been needed to extend the traditional backbone to Nkombo Island.

She indicated that apart from schools, satellite internet would also give internet access to the communities where it is installed. “Investing in space technology is part of our broader mission: reduce the digital gap by providing equal digital possibilities to rural and remote communities,” the minister said.

Greg Wyler, OneWeb’s founder indicated that the connection that will be provided to these communities “will help them fulfil their dreams and let Rwanda become a hub of technological innovation.”