Technological Classroom for Inclusion
Ecuador: Cañar Province (IEEE Region 9)
Year Funded by Tech4Good
Funding Provided by Tech4Good*
Individuals Impacted
Number of Volunteers
* funding in USD
Sustainable Development Goals
Team Members
Members of the IEEE Ecuador Section and IEEE SIGHT Politécnica Salesiana (UPS) University-Cuenca Student Branch.
Three team members joined IEEE during this project.
Project Description
Residents of Cañar, Ecuador, and its rural parishes—including children, youth, older adults, and individuals with disabilities—face significant barriers to accessing and using technology due to limited economic resources. This project addresses digital exclusion by equipping vulnerable populations with essential technological skills to support their personal and professional development.
The IEEE volunteer project team established eight computer classrooms across the province in designated community spaces. Each classroom is equipped with new computer hardware and adaptive technologies tailored to the needs of specific beneficiary groups. The initiative aims to reduce the digital divide while promoting inclusion, equity, and long-term social and economic development.
Initial Impact
The project is expected to directly benefit approximately 450 individuals, including people with disabilities, older adults, orphaned children, and residents of rural communities, with additional indirect benefits to the wider population. The classrooms operate as inclusive, free-access community spaces that promote digital literacy and improve access to education, information, and future opportunities.
Many participants had no prior experience using computers. To address diverse needs, the IEEE team installed specialized software such as screen readers for individuals with visual impairments and voice-recognition tools for those with motor disabilities. All participants receive training in basic office applications, enabling them to serve as technology instructors within their own communities.
In a letter supporting the initiative, the Mayor of Cañar Canton said the program “will be a tool for social inclusion, the reduction of the digital divide, and the improvement of the quality of life” in the area.
Following the delivery of equipment, the project team partnered with the Autonomous Decentralized Intercultural Government of Cañar Canton to provide ongoing technology training with active participation from beneficiary groups.
