IBM Philippines and Alvarez Foundation recently signed a memorandum of agreement to implement the Kidsmart Early Learning Program in Guiuan, Leyte.
This agreement has been made with the two organizations that have shared objective to support the Philippines in recovering from the devastating typhoon Yolanda (International name Haiyan), which struck the island of Leyte and the surrounding areas and provinces in early November 2013.
IBM donated 30 units of Kidsmart Young Explorer Computers with each unit containing: a Young Explorer encasement; Lenovo Desktop PC; instructional software covering the subject areas of Science; Math; English and Social Studies; as well as all accessories. IBM, with the help of Asia Pacific College, also provided training to enable the teachers and school ICT coordinators to use the application programs.
Alvarez Foundation recommended and provided the linkage to the affected public elementary schools and took the lead in coordinating with the Department of Education and its school divisions. The foundation likewise sponsored the meals for trainers and teachers, and other logistical requirements onsite.
“We at the Alvarez Foundation are delighted with our partnership with IBM,” said Vicky Garchitorena, President of Alvarez Foundation. “Their generous donation of Kidsmart kiosks will open the minds of our children in Guiuan, Leyte and introduce them to the wonders of technology. It will be a ray of light in their otherwise dark view of their world after Yolanda.Mabuhay ang IBM!”
“IBM is committed to help through technology and expertise, in the rebuilding and rehabilitation of Leyte and other parts of the country that were affected by Haiyan,” said Luis Pineda, President and Country General Manager, IBM Philippines. “By contributing to the reinvigoration of primary education through our Kidsmart program, we hope to enable educators and students in starting anew, and regaining equal footing with the rest of the world through access and knowledge.”
IN PHOTO: Mr. Luis Pineda, President and Country General Manager of IBM and Vicky Garchitorena, President of Alvarez Foundation sign the memorandum of agreement for the two organizations to collaborate in helping rebuild Leyte schools through Kidsmart Education Program.
Officials from IBM, Alvarez Foundation and Asia Pacific College stand as witnesses.