Nicaragua: Strengthening Communities and Building for the Future Your Program Impact Report—Spring 2024 OUR GRATITUDE Opportunity International believes all our brothers and sisters should have the chance to live with dignity and purpose, to live in safe and cohesive communities, and to send their children to school. Thank you for sharing this belief. Thank you for lifting up the people of Nicaragua as they build a brighter future.
THE NEED The World Bank reports that Nicaragua's long-term growth and per capita incomes are significantly constrained by low human capital, significant infrastructure gaps, and a weak institutional and business environment. GDP expanded by 3.8% in 2022 despite high inflation. However, the average annual inflation in 2022 surged to 10.5%, the highest among Central American countries. The poverty rate in 2022 was 13.1%. Nicaragua's economic growth is projected to moderate to 3.1% in 2023 due to the global economic slowdown. Nicaragua is one of the poorest countries in the region, despite opportunities.
ONE SOLUTION: QUALITY EDUCATION Founded in 2012, Emprendedora Technical School continues to provide high-quality, relevant education to rural students in grades 7-11. The school provides: Comprehensive general education and English lessons, to help the students gain English fluency, which is often an important skill in their chosen field or in higher education
Hands-on experience operating and managing the school’s organic agribusinesses, including an egg hatchery and vegetable farm, and learning about food processing via the local yucca processing plant
In-depth hospitality experience by interning at a local sustainable tourism resort, Pacaya Lodge, and learning about day-to-day operations and financial planning for hospitality businesses
Job or college preparation assistance, including mock-interviews, resume assistance, college application workshops, and business plan evaluations
With your support, Emprendedora Technical High School is working toward being a self-sustaining school that builds upon current community development work in Nicaragua while also serving as a model school for other communities. Teaching and comprehension of English is a critical component for students, especially with the focus on tourism. English textbooks and workbooks were provided for all 300 students—an incredible resources for both students and teachers. They also have a digital platform with access to complementary material to 101 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 1150, Chicago, IL 60606 T 800.793.9455 W opportunity.org
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