Despite significant strides in educational access globally, sub-Saharan Africa remains disproportionately affected by educational exclusion, with alarming rates of out-of-school children. According to UNESCO, over one-fifth of children aged 10 to 17 and nearly 60% of youth aged 18 to 25 are not in school. This educational deficit is compounded by a severe lack of digital skills, with 89% of learners in Africa lacking access to household computers and 82% without internet access. This digital divide is a formidable barrier to breaking the cycle of poverty and achieving global competitiveness. This project is focused on underprivileged children aged 10-18. Furthermore, climate change poses a significant threat to the region, with projections indicating a 2.9% decline in crop production by 2030 and an 18% decline by 2050 if current trends (environmental mismanagement) continue. This could lead to extreme hunger for approximately 200 million people and a rise in poverty from 20% to 30%.

The lack of climate education exacerbates these challenges, leaving communities ill-prepared to adapt and mitigate the adverse effects of environmental degradation. The EcoLearn Hub aims to address these critical issues by providing access to quality education, digital literacy, and comprehensive climate education. Our holistic approach integrates experiential learning, the VARK model, and a curriculum that emphasizes play-based methodology to foster lifelong learning and skill development

The ""EcoLearn Hub"" embodies the best and most effective model for addressing the multifaceted challenges of access to quality education, digital skills, and climate change. It takes the community centre approach, which is a proven model that eliminates numerous barriers to education by providing a centralized, accessible location where students can engage in comprehensive learning without the obstacles of bureaucratic restrictions, poverty, or distance. Our innovative approach will ensure that students are not only educated but also empowered to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

At EcoLearn Hub, we will provide a state-of-the-art learning environment offering high-quality education, cutting-edge digital skills training, and comprehensive climate change education. Our advanced digital labs will equip students with essential technology skills, preparing them for modern job markets. Interactive workshops and hands-on projects in sustainability will teach environmental stewardship, transforming students into advocates for a sustainable future. Additionally, the Hub will be built using recycled materials, exemplifying our commitment to environmental responsibility. By integrating these elements, EcoLearn Hub will deliver holistic education that impacts over 1,000 students annually, fostering resilience and innovation in communities.

The EcoLearn Hub initiative is designed with a robust framework to ensure long-term sustainability and scalability. Our strategic approach integrates multiple facets that will not only maintain but also expand our impact over time. Below are the key components of our sustainability and scalability strategy: Leveraging Corporate Partnerships We will actively leverage our participation in employee-giving programs at high-tech companies such as Microsoft and Google. These partnerships will provide essential resources, including financial support, volunteer engagement, and access to cutting-edge technology. By aligning with these industry leaders, we can ensure that our students receive the highest quality digital skills training, making them competitive in the global job market. Diversified Funding Streams-To ensure financial sustainability, we will diversify our funding streams by applying for additional grants, engaging in fundraising campaigns, leveraging social media for storytelling and impact updates, and fostering partnerships with philanthropic organizations.

This multi-faceted approach will provide a steady influx of resources necessary to maintain and expand our operations. Community and Stakeholder Engagement-Maintaining strong relationships with community stakeholders, including community heads, political leaders, and local organizations, is critical to our success. We will engage these stakeholders through regular consultations, collaborative projects, and community events. This inclusive approach will ensure that our programs are aligned with the needs and priorities of the community, fostering a sense of ownership and long-term commitment. Our idea is unique as it uses one stone to kill three targets- climate advocacy, education and tech fused into one.