Indigenous communities and learners enabled by satellite
unconnected.org has partnered with STEMEd Philippines Inc. to deliver high-speed satellite broadband connectivity to underserved Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities in Mindanao, Philippines.
The program is being implemented with funding support from the BIMP-EAGA Korea Cooperation Fund (BKCF). The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), the Department of Education (DepEd), the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and local government units lauded the private-sector led initiative, aimed at bringing reliable internet access to remote IP middle and high schools using Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology.
“This is more than a technology deployment—it’s a catalyst for opportunity,” said Dr Arthur Palisoc, President of STEMEd. “By working with unconnected.org and leveraging advanced satellite broadband, we are enabling education, economic growth, and community empowerment where it is needed most. In Mindanao through the grant provided by BKCF and other partners, we have provided connectivity in Aspang, General Santos City and Macambol National High School, Mati City.”
Through this partnership, the initiative has established IP Community Internet Cafés as hubs for learning, e-commerce, and local innovation; provided training to teachers and community members on maintaining and using the satellite connectivity systems; and delivered STEM and STEAM lesson plans tied to internet access, satellite applications, and real-world community needs.
The project has already installed satellite systems in the participating schools and completed ten engaging STEM lessons, covering topics from tracking storms using meteorological data to understanding how civil engineering shapes daily life. All connectivity hardware and software will be left with the IP communities for sustained use.
With expansion plans at Brunei-Darussalam, Eastern Malaysia, and Indonesia, this collaborative initiative sets a regional benchmark for inclusive, technology-driven development.
