São Paulo
Brazil
- Daniel Nunes
- Angel Draev
Intermediate
Description
This 36-hour course is designed for policymakers, government officials, regulators, and ICT professionals eager to leverage emerging technologies to enhance service delivery, operational efficiency, and governance. The course focuses on satellite connectivity as a solution to bridge the digital divide and promote sustainable development.
While there will be a technical component, the main goal is to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of satellite access technologies, including LEO, MEO, and GEO satellites, as well as their applications, regulatory frameworks, and policies on a global scale. By the end of the course, participants will have gained both the technical knowledge and strategic insight required to assess, plan, and implement satellite-based solutions in their countries. They will be equipped to improve internet access and enhance digital service delivery through satellite connectivity in line with global policies and regulations.
With the generous support of the Global Gateway initiative of the European Union, participation in this training is provided free of charge for selected applicants, including accommodation, meals, and other organized activities. Participants or their organizations will be responsible for covering their travel expenses to São Paulo, Brazil and if needed visa application costs.
This course is open for:
- Policymakers and government officials;
- Regulators and other ICT professionals who are keen on leveraging emerging technologies to enhance service delivery, operational efficiency and governance.
Members of the above-mentioned target population are invited to apply for the training if they meet the following criteria:
- Hold an undergraduate degree in a relevant field or have a minimum of three years of experience in the field of digital transformation if they do not hold a university degree;
- Possess a fluent level of English;
- Complete the application questionnaire and attach an up-to-date CV, a recommendation letter from their employer, or a motivation letter.
Government officials and policymakers from developing countries, particularly women, are encouraged to apply.
Selection will be conducted by the course organizers, who will consider the above entry requirements along with an analysis of the application questionnaire and the recommendation/motivation letter of each applicant.
Number of available places for the cohort: 30
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Outline the fundamentals of satellite connectivity and its strategic importance;
- Distinguish between LEO, MEO, and GEO satellites and their specific applications;
- Explain the technical infrastructure of satellite systems, including key components and technologies;
- Evaluate the application of satellite connectivity solutions to real-world service delivery challenges;
- Evaluate global regulatory frameworks and their impact on satellite communication policies;
- Analyze satellite-based connectivity projects and their implementation strategies;
- Assess emerging trends in satellite technology and their future implications.
The course will be delivered in a Face-to-Face (F2F) format, combining instructor-led presentations with interactive discussions and group work to foster an engaging learning environment. The instructor will introduce each topic through structured interactive sessions, using real-world examples and case studies to enhance learning. Throughout the sessions, participants will be encouraged to actively participate by asking questions and engaging in open discussion. Group activities and debates will be facilitated to promote collaborative learning, allowing participants to explore the implications of emerging technologies in various sectors. As part of the course methodology, one mandatory pre-reading is assigned for each topic to be completed before the course. These readings are carefully selected to provide essential background and contextual understanding of the topics at hand. Completing them in advance will enable participants to engage more effectively in daily discussions, group activities, and case analyses. This methodology ensures a dynamic and participatory learning experience, supporting the development of both individual insights and collective knowledge.
The course assessment methodology includes three components:
- Active participation in group discussions: 10%
- Quizzes: 35%
- Final assignment: 55%
A total score of 70% or higher is required to obtain the ITU certificate. Please note that full attendance throughout the training is mandatory for certification.
Day 1: Introduction to Satellite Connectivity and Satellites Types
Session 1: Introduction to Satellite Connectivity
- Identify the fundamentals of satellite connectivity and its strategic importance in bridging the digital divide.
- Analyze the role of satellite connectivity in enabling digital transformation in various sectors such as education, healthcare, and government services.
Session 2: Types of Satellites – LEO, MEO, and GEO
- Distinguish between LEO, MEO, and GEO satellites and understand their characteristics, advantages, and limitations.
- Analyze the specific applications of each satellite type and identify the best use cases for each in different regions.
Session 3: The Role of Satellite Connectivity in Achieving Digital Inclusion: Challenges and Opportunities.
- Discuss the potential of satellite technology to bridge the digital divide, particularly in remote and underserved regions. What are the key challenges in implementing satellite connectivity, and how can these be overcome to achieve digital inclusion?
Session 4: Daily wrap-up, final assignment development and daily quiz
Day 2: Satellite Infrastructure and Applications
Session 1: Understanding Satellite Infrastructure
- Illustrate the technical infrastructure of satellite systems, including ground stations, satellite constellations, and user terminals.
- Explain the importance of high-throughput satellites (HTS) and low-latency technologies in improving connectivity.
Session 2: Satellite Applications in Service Delivery
- Apply satellite connectivity solutions to address service delivery challenges, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
- Analyze real-world examples of satellite-based applications in education, healthcare, and emergency response.
Session 3: Daily wrap-up, final assignment development
Session 4: Daily quiz
Day 3: Policies, Regulations, and Global Frameworks
Session 1: Global Satellite Connectivity Policies
- Examine the global landscape of satellite communications and the role of international regulatory bodies.
- Analyze how different countries approach satellite policy and regulation.
Session 2: National and Regional Regulatory Frameworks
- Evaluate the regulatory frameworks governing satellite communications at the national and regional levels.
- Distinguish between regulatory challenges and opportunities in the global satellite market.
Session 3: The Regulatory Challenges in Global Satellite Connectivity: What Can Policymakers Learn from Different Countries?
- Analyze the different regulatory approaches adopted by countries to manage satellite communications. What regulatory challenges do governments face when implementing satellite technologies, and what lessons can be learned from global policies?
Session 4: Daily wrap-up, final assignment development and daily quiz
Day 4: Implementing Satellite Connectivity Projects and Future Trends
Session 1: Satellite Connectivity Project Management
- Evaluate the steps involved in planning and managing satellite-based connectivity projects.
- Analyze key factors that influence the success of satellite projects, including cost, coverage, and local needs.
Session 2: Case Studies of Satellite Connectivity Implementation
- Apply lessons learned from real-world case studies to understand best practices for satellite project implementation.
- Assess challenges faced in satellite projects and suggest improvements based on case study analysis.
Session 3: Emerging Trends in Satellite Connectivity
- Analyze emerging technologies in satellite connectivity, such as mega-constellations and 5G integration.
- Evaluate the potential impacts of these innovations on global service delivery and connectivity.
Session 4: Best Practices for Managing Satellite-Based Connectivity Projects in Developing Countries.
- Discuss the key considerations and best practices for managing satellite-based projects in developing regions. What factors need to be considered for successful implementation, and how can policymakers ensure these projects meet local needs and priorities?
Session 5: Daily wrap-up, final assignment development and daily quiz
Day 5: Final Assessment
Session 1: Group presentations to the panel
Session 2: Course evaluation
Session 3: Closing ceremony and certification of participants
- Mr. Daniel Nunes, Prof. MSc. Inatel
- ITU Representative TBD
- EU Representative TBD














