Program delivery will benefit over 90,000 children, youth and adults, improving economic and social inclusion across 23,000 marginalized families
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – November 15, 2023 – International humanitarian organization Food for the Hungry FH launches its transformative education initiative, EduLabs, to provide accessible, technology-driven education in the Dominican Republic. The organization will establish technology laboratories with robust internet connectivity in 80 public schools situated in Greater Santo Domingo, Monte Plata, Elías Piña, and San Juan de La Maguana – areas that have previously suffered a deep digital divide.
EduLabs aims to equip over 90,000 children, youth, and adults with essential digital skills, including online navigation, productivity tools, and online security. Participants will also receive training in technological skills for employment and guidance on leveraging digital tools for educational purposes and fostering innovation. For children and youth, EduLabs will offer additional educational reinforcement in literacy, mathematics, arts, and sciences, ensuring a holistic approach to learning.
The program is an affordable, cutting-edge, low-footprint solution that can operate even in areas with limited internet access. This solution would represent a 3040% cost reduction per seat in hardware in comparison with traditional PC school labs.
Food for the Hungry is engaging in a private-public alliance with Intel, Geeks Without Frontiers, The N50 Project, SMART Technologies, Appliansys, and Ministerio de Educación de la República Dominicana MINERD to deliver the program that will have a profound impact on over 23,000 Dominican families.
Rocio Cruz, Country Director – Dominican Republic, Food for the Hungry said, “EduLabs symbolizes our unwavering dedication to enhance educational opportunities in the Dominican Republic, with a special focus on the empowerment of new generations. By harnessing technology, we aim to make quality education accessible to all, breaking down barriers and nurturing dreams.”
Luis Marin, Intel’s Global Director of Education Ecosystem and Partnerships, said, “Our commitment is to lead the way, empowering new generations with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in this new era. Together, we will forge a future where education is accessible to all.”
In the Dominican Republic, there is a growing disparity in access and adequate use of information and communication technology ICT among different segments of the population. This disparity is manifested in the lack of Internet connectivity in specific areas, the lack of digital devices in low-income households and public schools, and limited digital literacy among community members. This is leaving specific marginalized groups, such as public school students, low-income youth, and adults behind the rest of the country, creating inequality and social inclusion.
The program aligns with the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and will promote inclusive economic and social growth while reducing poverty in the country. EduLabs’ objectives after a year of implementation include a significant increase in the average grades of students from elementary to high school and a 30% improvement in technical skills for employment among adult and youth program participants. In its second year, the program is expected to achieve a 40% increase in the technological competencies of the target groups and a 20% increase in the adoption and use of technology in the assisted communities.
Food for the Hungry has had a dedicated presence in the Dominican Republic since 1979. The organization is committed to development programs and emergency responses that promote hope and resilience among the most vulnerable population in the country. Over the years, FH Dominicana has positively impacted over 400,000 Dominicans in various locations, including Monte Plata, Elías Piña, El Cercado, Santo Domingo Este, and La Victoria.
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About Food for the Hungry
Food for the Hungry is a Christian humanitarian aid and global development organization that designs, develops and delivers solutions so that children, families and communities can flourish. Collaborating with local leaders across sectors, we co-create solutions that build resilience by strengthening mental, physical and spiritual well-being. We serve nearly 10 million people in 18 countries so that communities have the agency and resources necessary to realize their God-given potential. For more information, follow FH on Instagram and Twitter, or visit www.fh.org
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