Via Satellite archive photo

Intelsat is looking to get more young people across Africa involved in the space sector. The operator announced Feb. 22 that is getting ready to welcome 30 new students to the second year of its MaxIQ Space (formerly Xinabox) Space STEM program. In the second year, Intelsat has now expanded the program to include students from all over the continent including South Africa, Rwanda, Nigeria, Egypt, and Uganda.

This program involves students designing, building and launching satellites into space. The program is virtual, with each student receiving a STEM kit and engaging in virtual workshops delivered by space education specialists.

During last year’s mission, students used the MaxIQ modular electronics space STEM kits and educational programs to design and build satellites that could feasibly launch into space. In the final project, students used their satellites to monitor the sustainability of the planet, following UN Sustainable Development Goals.

“We are proud to renew and grow our partnership with MaxIQ Space in Africa and build the pipeline of the next generation of satellite engineers. Sparking that tech interest at such a young age inspires future leaders who will soon lead the way with advancements we never dreamed possible,” Hans Geldenhuys, director of Sales-Africa for Intelsat said in a statement.