Bangladesh - Souktel's PeerNet Network Connects Youths via SMS

Description

Souktel is partnering with the US State Department and the non-profit International Education and Resource Network (iEARN) to implement its PeerNet mobile peer networking platform for Bangladeshi youth who have participated in the State Department’s Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange & Study (YES) programs. Youth returning to Bangladesh after a year-long cultural exchange face difficulty remaining in close contact with other program participants due to travel and infrastructure challenges. The SMS-based PeerNet platform provides an alternative means for program participants to connect with one another.

PeerNet platform users sign-up by sending a basic SMS message. Once their membership has been approved, they can send text messages, pose questions, ask advice or submit comments to either individual network members or to everyone on their PeerNet network as a whole. Network members receiving a text message can either reply to the individual sending the message or to everyone on the network as a whole. The PeerNet network is a closed group offering a safe, secure means of communication for network participants. Users pay their normal text messaging rates.

The PeerNet program partners have launched similar programs in India, Pakistan and occupied Palestine. Click the video link to see the more information on the PeerNet program in Palestine.