Educating Maya Youth

Class of 2009 - 84 grads, 43 in Community Development

When Ak’ Tenamit launched its education program in 1992, few children in the surrounding villages studied as far as sixth grade and most girls dropped out after first, or second grade. We began by improving the quality of education in village schools through teacher training, the donation of school supplies and a program to encourage girls to study. This resulted in a growing demand for a secondary education, so in 2001, Ak’ Tenamit opened an innovative vocational education center that provides students with practical skills and job experience while instilling them with self confidence and a commitment to help their people. This has been possible thanks to our student sponsorship program and support from an array of individuals, foundations, and international organizations. Together, we have created a culturally sensitive, practical education program that is transforming young lives. The results include:

A record number of children in the villages completing grade school.
Most girls and parents now understand why they should stay in school.
Hundreds of students from remote and impoverished communities are getting a vocational education at the Father Tom Moran Education Center.
Moran Center graduates have gotten a variety of jobs and are helping their families and communities to work their way out of poverty.

“I’m so grateful for the good work that Ak’ Tenamit does and for the opportunity that it gives young people like me.” -- Martin Coc, Moran Center student