Hughes Receives the Better Satellite World Award 2024 for Connecting Communities and Transforming Lives
Space & Satellite Professionals International (SSPI) recently awarded Hughes, alongside Microsoft and Colombia’s Ministry of Information Technologies and Communications (MinTIC), the prestigious 2024 Better Satellite World Award for our collective efforts in bringing internet connectivity to some of Colombia's most isolated communities, transforming lives and expanding opportunities.
The “Better Satellite World” award highlights established companies and disruptive innovators who make the world a more prosperous, healthier, better-educated, sustainable, and inclusive place for humanity. This recognition—received during a dinner ceremony in London on December 2—highlights our significant contributions in expanding access, reducing barriers to affordable internet connectivity, and promoting digital inclusion for underserved communities.
A More Connected World
In an era that is so technologically advanced and globally connected, it’s hard to imagine a place without internet access. Nevertheless, according to Statista, there are still billions of people around the world without access. Picture a life with limited to no digital access to opportunities for education, entrepreneurship, personal development, and economic growth. A life isolated from the rest of the world.
Up until the summer of 2023, this was the reality for citizens in some of the most remote regions of Colombia. Today, thanks to the collaboration and dedication of Hughes, Microsoft, and Colombia’s MinTIC, a brighter, connected future is within reach.
Empowering People and Fostering Growth
Colombia’s innovative "Juntas de Internet" program addresses the connectivity challenge in remote areas of the country. The launch of this program in July 2023 represented a transformative step toward driving development and progress in Villa del Río, La Guajira; Chilvicito, Nariño; and Domingodó, Chocó. By leveraging innovative satellite internet technology and equipping communities with digital tools, the program has empowered residents and fostered growth.
These regions had the lowest connectivity rates in all of Colombia and have suffered from violence, high unemployment rates, and economic and labor inequalities. Beyond delivering connectivity, the program provided training to community members in installation, management, troubleshooting, network monitoring, antenna orientation, and cybersecurity, ensuring long-term success and self-sufficiency.
Additionally, digital literacy and engagement programs were developed to empower these communities to maximize their opportunities in education, employment, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and community development.
Communities and ISPs Working Together
This initiative has demonstrated that implementing, connecting, and maintaining internet connectivity can be a collaborative and successful partnership between local residents and Internet Service Providers (ISPs), establishing a sustainable and replicable model.
"At Hughes, we are committed to democratizing internet access and closing the digital divide in Colombia. This award recognizes the dedication and effort of everyone involved in the Juntas de Internet program," said Roque Lombardo, General Manager of Hughes in Colombia.
Hughes pioneered the technology that powers online access more than 25 years ago and is driven by a passion for enabling the networks that connect people worldwide, making internet access faster, easier, and more affordable.
Learn more about Hughes Satellite Internet solutions and other company achievements.