- Links universities and research networks across Burundi
- Manages high‑speed internet, eduroam, videoconferencing and support
Services and connectivity of BERNET
BERNET is Burundi’s National Research and Education Network. It was established in 2014 to serve universities and research institutions. The network connects member organisations with high‑speed internet links. It provides eduroam wireless services across campuses. Members also access secure videoconferencing and collaborative tools. BERNET offers bandwidth sharing at competitive rates to support research and education.
The organisation provides training and technical support to IT staff. Staff conduct workshops on network use, security and e‑education tools. Member institutions benefit from enhanced resource sharing and global collaboration. BERNET supports seamless network access during academic events. Its network enables smooth data exchange across institutions. The service strengthens digital learning and research capacity in Burundi. The organisation continues to enrol new educational centres as members.
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Infrastructure footprint and regional integration
BERNET operates its service via the national fibre network. It has integrated with the national fibre backbone to reach member locations. The organisation connects more than fifteen institutions. Speeds currently range up to several hundred Mbps per site. BERNET also provides regional peering with UbuntuNet Alliance. The network is preparing to join the regional research backbone under AfricaConnect2. This will enable cross‑national link to other NRENs in eastern and southern Africa.
BERNET works with BBS, the national backbone operator, to manage cost and access. The project supports labs, libraries and IT centres across campuses. Staff plan upgrades to support IPv6 and improved DNS services. The network doubles as a testing platform for digital infrastructure development. BERNET aims to expand access across more universities and institutions. Its infrastructure supports future growth in higher education connectivity.
