All Photos By: DJ Pierce
2019 Donors’ Appeal
Empowering Communities Globally—We as you to join us
Social Impact: Disabling Illiteracy
Throughout Africa there is a consistent lack of access to education and information. Until 10 years ago, when Himalayan Institute Cameroon established the first public library in the community of Kumbo, no one had even seen a public library. In Kumbo, despite a higher literacy rate compared to the neighboring communities, books are extremely difficult to find, and cost-prohibitive when they are available: a used paperback routinely costs $15–$20 in a country where the majority earn less than $2 a day.
One of our primary focus areas in Cameroon has been to eradicate illiteracy and provide the community with easy access to books and resources necessary for a better education. Our system also combines health practitioners that staff the library, allowing our libraries to act as a center of health in the communities we serve as well. We not only provide the necessary resources for good health and a place for learning, but we’ve expanded our library system to offer vocational training, practical development of life skills, and technical knowledge. Providing educational materials to an area of the world where purchasing textbooks is almost equal to the cost of attending school has had an immeasurable impact on the lives of children, adults, and families across the region. We currently have 6 libraries serving over 3,000 members.
We now have 6 fully functioning library locations throughout Cameroon. This successful model is completely operated by local HIC staff members, who act as librarians, teachers, and health practitioners. Our staffed communities now have access to an increasing number of books and educational classes, while other communities outside of our current reach are still awaiting their opportunity.
The Need
Our goal is to serve 4,000 students through our public libraries. We also intend to update our current educational resources within our libraries. At present our technology is dated, we have limited access to the internet, and a limited number of computers. These obstacles put a restriction on the quality of education we deliver to a community that has not been fully introduced to the future of communication and work via the internet. These programs, the resources, and the staff that oversees them are essential to these communities, as they give broader access to learning.
Join us!
Our libraries provide job opportunities, educational opportunities, and empowerment through all the programs and resources we provide. We ask you to join us in this life-changing work. Please donate NOW to support our social impact, as we continue to support Africa into a brighter tomorrow. Creating change is a long-term investment. The impact that your support creates NOW will continue to develop for many generations to come.
We are changing the world.
All Photos By: DJ Pierce
