In a significant stride towards enhancing the capabilities of Research and Education Networks (NRENs) in Africa, the UbuntuNet Alliance organized the MPLS Applications for NRENs workshop in Lilongwe, Malawi. The event, which has taken place from September 25th to 29th, 2023, has been hosted by the incumbent NREN in Malawi, the Malawi Research and Education Network (MAREN). This workshop, co-funded by the European Union under the AfricaConnect3 project, is part of a series of capacity-building events aimed at strengthening the region’s academic and research network infrastructure under the project.
At the heart of this workshop lies MPLS, which stands for Multi-Protocol Label Switching. MPLS is a technology that has become increasingly essential in modern networking. It plays a crucial role in optimizing network traffic, improving efficiency, and enhancing the quality of network services.
The five-day workshop features an extensive curriculum designed to equip NREN personnel from member NRENs with the knowledge and skills required to harness the benefits of MPLS. The workshop covers the following key topics: Introduction to MPLS, MPLS Layer 2 VPNs, MPLS Layer 3 VPNs and MPLS traffic engineering.
The workshop has been expertly facilitated by the Networks team of the UbuntuNet Alliance, comprised of Mr. Joe Kimaili and Mr. Wilson Wasswa. Their extensive knowledge and experience in networking technologies ensured that participants received high-quality instruction and hands-on training throughout the event.
Workshops like this one play a pivotal role in ensuring that the UbuntuNet Alliance network operates efficiently. Both the Alliance and its member NRENs understand the importance of providing a high-quality network infrastructure for students and staff across the region. By equipping NREN personnel with the skills necessary to implement MPLS, the Alliance and its partners are actively contributing to the advancement of education and research in Africa.
The MPLS Applications for NRENs workshop held in Lilongwe, Malawi, under the auspices of the UbuntuNet Alliance and co-funded by the European Union, marks a significant step in strengthening the capabilities of NRENs in the region. By providing participants with in-depth knowledge of MPLS technology, this workshop ensures that NRENs can continue to offer high-quality network services to educational and research institutions, ultimately contributing to the advancement of knowledge and innovation across Africa. Such collaborative efforts are crucial in building a brighter future for the continent.
