In Mexico, ACCESO International supported schools and extra-curricular learning opportunities between 2000 and 2009 by providing supplies and individual bursaries. We also assisted with the construction and refurbishment of reading rooms, homework centres, education-based recreational facilities and playgrounds, as well as through the support of creativity workshops and summer academic enrichment programs in multiple locations.
Our support for these popular education projects provided thousands of children and youth with an empowering space for reading, writing, imagination, and play through which they developed communication and critical thinking skills and they enhanced their cultural identity. Since some programs focused on gender equality, peace-building, conflict resolution, respectful friendships, and environmental protection, they fostered critical reflection and encouraged community engagement. The resulting positive change was articulated quite impressively and optimistically by a young beneficiary:
If we all united, we can defeat inequality in the world because men and women are equal. If we all put in a little help, the world will be a better place.
Child Participant in Summer Enrichment Program