As part of the Satellite for Schools program, forty rural schools in New Zealand will be receiving a free Starlink satellite broadband connection. Network For Learning (N4L) and 2degrees, a recently-appointed Starlink reseller, are collaborating to offer these connections.

The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and provide reliable internet access to schools in remote areas. Many rural schools in New Zealand struggle with limited connectivity options, hindering their ability to provide quality education to students.

Reno Skipper, the principal of Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ngāringaomatariki, a school near Wellsford, expressed the challenges they faced before receiving the Starlink connection. He mentioned that on many occasions, they were unable to mark the morning roll or have multiple computers running simultaneously in a classroom. The free Starlink connection has significantly improved their ability to provide a seamless learning experience for their students.

The partnership between N4L and 2degrees is a significant step forward in addressing the connectivity issues faced by rural schools in New Zealand. By utilizing Starlink’s satellite broadband technology, these schools will now have access to high-speed internet, enabling them to leverage online educational resources and tools.

The Satellite for Schools program is expected to make a positive impact on the education system in rural areas. It will enhance digital learning opportunities and empower students and teachers with the resources they need to thrive in the modern age.

The collaboration between N4L, 2degrees, and Starlink demonstrates a commitment to equal access to education and the importance of connectivity in enabling educational growth. With the rollout of the free Starlink satellite broadband connections, these forty rural schools in New Zealand will be equipped with the necessary tools to provide quality education to their students and bridge the digital divide.