The Sierra Leone government has announced the introduction of Starlink internet service to over 10 private and public universities in the country.

This development surfaced after the government, through the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation (MoCTI) signed an agreement with electronic company, ELCOME SL Ltd.

The agreement is the first step that will see all public universities and a handful of private ones introduced to Starlink internet service.

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Salima Bah stressed on the significance of internet connectivity for university students in the West African country.

“For students in universities, who are being prepared to lead in a digital world, access to the internet is essential,” Minister Bah affirmed. “Without it, their growth and opportunities are limited.

She also threw light on the significance of starlink adding to the growing number of internet service providers in the country.

“Today, three local companies are providing Starlink services, each with its own unique approach,” she said.

As part of Sierra Leone’s National Broadband Strategy, the university connectivity is the first step as the government plans to extend the service to vocational institutions in the country. Sierra Leone plans to achieve nationwide internet connectivity by 2028 in line with its National Digital Development Policy (NDDP) which was approved in 2021. The policy plans to transform the country as an inclusive digital economy and society.

Experts believe that internet connectivity in the country is significant for growth with the country boasting of over 2.6 million internet users. Data Reportal highlighted the country of having over 1.1 social media users in 2024 with growth expected in the coming years.