What if we could build internet-ready skills among the half-of-the-world’s population that remains offline? Left unaddressed, inequalities between the always-connected and the never-connected only accelerate. Yet, merely providing internet access is—and always will be—insufficient. SolarSPELL is directly addressing this challenge in low-resource locations globally. SolarSPELL’s offline, portable, solar-powered, open-access digital libraries are localized in order to ensure relevance. Yet, equally important is our emphasis on partnering, train-the-trainer training, and skill-building.
SolarSPELL has proved its concept in 8 countries in East Africa and the Pacific Islands. We would like to expand the initiative to Latin America and the Caribbean, and believe that millions could benefit from the improvement of educational opportunities in a manner that works with their existing infrastructure. By leveraging innovative technology, providing locally-relevant educational libraries, and building critical digital and information literacies, SolarSPELL is empowering communities to address the complex challenges of tomorrow.