Digitalizing the African education is a ball ready to roll as Nigeria’s education system marks an upfront in quality library services.
Recently, Gigabit Libraries Network (GLN) and the National Library of Nigeria laid down plans to facilitate five public libraries with the latest Starlink satellite broadband system. Nigeria will now emerge as the first African country to have Low Earth Orbit connected libraries; currently, the libraries’ details have not yet been revealed, but the libraries will be located in Abuja and Lagos.
Since the newly introduced satellite connection is not affected by power and/or internet outages, it promises high-quality services as it is not disturbed by bad weather. Also, the conventional connection relies on wires and towers, which are often affected by unfavourable weather coupled with the cost of installing long-wired connections.
The director at Human Capacity Development and Training, Nkem Osuigwe, prospects that the satellite connection would be a useful tool for Nigerian youths who do not have access to internet connection to interact with the digital space and access information and opportunities.
Gigabit Libraries Network (GLN) added, “In many African communities, the library is the only place to access free and/or cheap internet. Getting libraries connected to fast, stable and affordable internet, can be the only link between young people and opportunities.”
GLN Director, Don Means, stated that the satellite connection would help bridge the global digital divide and usher the country into a wider telecom ecosystem.
On the other hand, if the Starlink satellite connection is served only in urban cities, its benefit may most likely not reach poorly facilitated libraries in other locations. So, while Gigabit Libraries Network and the National Library of Nigeria envision a more digitalized library with an up-to-date wireless connection, the targeted location should be of utmost priority.
Also, even though the satellite-connected libraries are open, will the facilities be accessible to students without strict permission or regulations? The Starlink satellite broadband system is a ‘plus star’ to Nigeria’s educational system if these questions are favourably answered and followed accordingly. If not, how can the Low Earth Orbit connection enhance Nigeria’s library services?
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