Intelsat, operator of one of the world’s largest integrated satellite and terrestrial networks, announced that 12 schools from Kenya, South Africa, Senegal, and Nigeria have been selected to participate in the 2025 Intelsat/MaxIQ Space STEM Program, a pioneering initiative aimed at empowering young minds across Africa with advanced space science and engineering training.

In its latest evolution, the program continues to expand its reach with over 3,000 students across the four African countries, a significant step in advancing Intelsat’s mission to nurture the next generation of African scientists, engineers and space innovators.

Following a highly competitive selection process, twelve exemplary schools and institutions have been chosen reflecting a powerful blend of strong infrastructure, visionary educational leadership, and an unshakable commitment to cultivating the next generation of STEM leaders across Africa. Among the selected institutions are Kenya STEM Alliance, STEM Center Africa, Green Hills International School, and Women in STEAM Initiative, all based in Kenya; Liftoff Africa representing Nigeria; and four organizations from Senegal, including BLK Robot Project, American Bilingual School, Le Collège Bilingue, and Lycée Galandou Diouf. South Africa rounds out the list with The Delf Nex-Indawo Yethu eCentre, Edunova, and La Rochelle Girls’ High School, each contributing uniquely to the continent’s transformative STEM education landscape. These trailblazers embody Africa’s bold vision for innovation and inclusivity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Each of these institutions have received custom-built MaxIQ Space xChip kits, carefully designed to provide hands-on learning in satellite technology, data analytics and systems thinking. Educators have been fully onboarded and are equipped to deliver engaging, high-impact training. Students are now ready to embark on a dynamic 4-5-month journey filled with workshops, experimentation and immersive STEM learning experiences.

By combining cutting-edge space technology with grassroots educational leadership, the Intelsat Space STEM Program stands as a model for scalable, high-impact STEM outreach. It connects classrooms to the future of satellite innovation while enabling communities to address pressing global challenges like sustainability and digital equity.

“Africa’s space future is rising. The Intelsat and MaxIQ Space STEM Program continues to demonstrate the transformative power of STEM education across the continent,” says Rhys Morgan, RVP EMEA Sales, Intelsat. “We believe STEM has the capacity to uplift communities, unlock potential and shape brighter futures – whether in underserved urban centers or dynamic rural regions.”

“As training begins and kits are deployed, we’re witnessing the start of something far greater than a single program. We’re building a network of educators, students, and community leaders who view space science and sustainability not as distant ambitions, but as real opportunities,” adds Judi Sandrock, Co-Founder of MaxIQ Space.

With a growing community of passionate mentors and students, the Intelsat/MaxIQ Space STEM Program continues to be a catalyst for innovation and scientific curiosity. Intelsat will continue to share student stories, discoveries and successes from across the continent.

Click here to learn more about Intelsat/MaxIQ Africa Space STEM Program