A firm step towards the future: Technical High School boosts rural development

At the beginning of the school year, the Wong Foundation undertook a project in search of transforming lives in rural communities in our country: the Technical High School (BT) at the Dr. Segundo Wong Educational Unit. This strategy, which is part of the “AGROFUTURO” initiative promoted by the foundation, opens a new path for adolescents between the ages of 15 and 18, providing them with the necessary tools for their professional future and to excel in agricultural production.

The BT has been designed to go beyond traditional education, with a curriculum of 50% theoretical subjects and 50% practice. Currently, students in the first year of high school acquire knowledge ranging from learning agricultural work, to the use of GPS and software such as Autocad to measure and plan production areas.

The educational program that aims to reach its first promotion in 2027 allows students to obtain basic key skills in agriculture, livestock, poultry, swine farming, among others, which ensures that, at the end of their studies, they obtain a solid foundation to continue specializing in the sector, creating opportunities for early job placement.

"The Technical High School program is an innovative rural pedagogical model that promotes meaningful learning that is contextualized to the reality of the countryside. With a methodology that encourages cooperation and experimentation, this approach places the student as the leader of his or her own development, while the educator acts as a facilitator. Thus, the young people not only acquire technical knowledge, but also cognitive, affective and ethical competencies, developing fundamental values, an entrepreneurial spirit and a deep commitment to the protection of biodiversity and the sustainable development of their communities," emphasizes Ricardo Romero, director of the foundation.

Sara Obando, Ashley's mother (15 years old) mentions: "What my daughter is studying is a different kind of high school. Living in the countryside, she had basic knowledge that she is now enhancing at the technical school. This is an opportunity for her to continue her studies and I will be there to support her.”

The ultimate goal of the Technical High School is for its graduates to become self-sufficient, empowered, productive professionals, with an honest life and committed to being an active part of the development of their communities.

Through the Wong Foundation, our business group promotes the growth and well-being of rural communities in Ecuador.