We live in a world where “googling” is the new encyclopedia, where two people from opposite sides of the world can instantly communicate, and where job postings, school applications, and resume profiles are increasingly found online.  The Internet has opened up an incredible network of new opportunities and shared information that has redefined not only the economy, but also the world that we live in. In order for our students to receive a truly holistic and competitive education, it is imperative that they develop technological skills through reliable access to the largest (and cheapest) information database in the world, the Internet. 

The Village understands this necessity; however with limited finances Agahozo-Shalom was only able to support an extremely slow internet connection, with limited band-width. Walk into our computer lab on any day and you will find a student patiently waiting five minutes or more for a web browser to load, so that they can continue researching for a school assignment or for the weekly family debate topics. There are constant struggles for students to meet deadlines due to network difficulties, and simple tasks become exceedingly time-consuming. 

ASYV IT Staff Members Upgrading Internet Equipment

Just recently however, the Village was finally able to upgrade its network thanks to the generous support of Wanderport, who donated $46,000 worth of equipment. Wanderport is an organization passionate about providing inter-networking technology to every part of the world, regardless of socioeconomic status, so that anyone can become empowered and educated through technology. Agahozo-Shalom wants to send a sincere thank you to Wanderport and all of our supporters who continue to open doors for our hard-working students. 

Submitted by Shelby Sullivan, 2015 Village Fellow