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This project is a continuation of the goodwill gesture that Rotary and partners has begun. It will identify and train teachers from five high schools in Foya, equip them with the necessary computer skills, knowledge, and resources in how to use a digital library (SmartServer/SmartBox) and computer lab. In turn, these teachers will help train students at their various high schools thereby creating a domino effect, which will bring systemic change to computer literacy among students and teachers alike. The project includes working with a participating organization (Destiny Hands International Inc.), a 501(c)3 located in San Diego, California which has first-hand knowledge of the educational needs and is able to perform an on-site verification of the project completion. Project Duration: July 2024- March 2025.
Need/Problem:
Students in Foya graduate from high school without any opportunity or access to computer science. In fact, most often, teachers also lack the necessary skills, training, and resources to help further their students' education. In March 2024, for the first time in that remote part of Liberia, one of six high schools in Foya successfully benefited from a digital library (SmartServer) and computer lab project through 2023-24 District 5340 matching grant (DDF). A training and provision of SmartServer and at least ten (10) laptop computers and accessories will improve the education experience of additional students and faculty.
The use of a SmartBox/SmartServer will resolve six critical challenges faced by teachers and their students:
1. Lack of internet - It provides students a huge collection of content sent wireless to the Chromebooks or laptop computers.
2. Limited electricity - Operates on battery power for 12-16 hours; recharges in 2-4 hours with generator or solar system.
3. Library shortage - Students and faculty have access to a myriad of books, videos and learning resources.
4. Teacher shortage - Students can learn in the absence of a qualified teacher, and teachers can learn to prepare themselves with instruction lessons.
5. Complicated and chaotic wiring system - This narrows the complexity and reduces the chances of a difficult computer wiring system.
6. Security - It is portable and can be easily yet securely locked and stored
Project Outcome:
This project will directly impact at least 200 faculty, staff, and benefit thousands upon thousands of Liberian schoolchildren including many orphans and extremely poor children with little or no opportunity for education each year. This will be a gift given by Rotary and its partners for the purpose of enhancing education and developing world peace through creating understanding between nations.
Who will carry out the project / Budget summary?
The sponsoring club Rotarians will be involved in project planning and promotion, logistics and handover ceremonies. The sponsoring club will specifically provide a total sum of US$2,400 for this project. The amount will underwrite a one-time cost of ten (10) refurbished laptop computers and accessories @ $1,600, shipment cost of the equipment @ $200, and training cost @ $600. The partnering organization(s) will provide funds to underwrite the cost of the remaining line items for this project (SmartServer kit =$1,500, other cost @ $600). The collaborating organization(s), with assistance from its affiliating local Liberian organization, will coordinate and carry out the project and will be responsible for any future maintenance needs.
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