The collaboration will extend high-speed satellite internet to WPDI’s Community Learning Centers in both South Sudan and Uganda, empowering thousands of young people with digital education in areas long hindered by infrastructure deficits.

As part of the three-year agreement, Intelsat will connect ten WPDI centers—seven in South Sudan and three in Uganda—with advanced satellite equipment and managed services.

The initiative includes full installation and continued technical assistance, aiming to bring dependable internet to regions where conventional connectivity solutions are either lacking or non-existent.

Forest Whitaker, WPDI’s founder and CEO, emphasized the broader purpose of the initiative:

“Education is essential to building peace. Our work leverages technology to offer opportunities to youth affected by conflict. With tools like connectivity, young people can reshape their futures and help bring peace to their communities.”

The timing of this program is crucial, with data from the International Telecommunication Union showing that only 19% of people in the least developed countries are online.

In places facing active conflict, access rates fall even further, making digital education nearly impossible.

Through this new partnership, WPDI trainees will gain internet access for the first time—allowing them to engage in online learning, virtual exchange programs, and digital skill-building initiatives.

Intelsat CEO Dave Wajsgras expressed strong support for the effort, stating:

“Connectivity has the power to fuel education and long-term development. WPDI’s mission aligns perfectly with our belief in satellite technology as a bridge to opportunity. We are proud to contribute to creating equitable digital access in these vulnerable communities.”

The connectivity upgrade is expected to significantly enrich WPDI’s curriculum, which already includes conflict transformation, entrepreneurship, and leadership development.

Students will now also build vital digital competencies that are essential for today’s job market.

WPDI’s past trainees have gone on to become educators, local officials, and change-makers.

A notable example is Benson Lugwar—a former child soldier from Uganda who has transformed his life and now serves as both an elected representative and a radio broadcaster.