A renewed focus on universal access to and equity in ICT for Burundian youth requires a two-pronged approach: investment in ICT equipment and implementation of ICT curricula with targeted efforts to develop 21st-century skillsets. The partnership between Computers for Schools Burundi, Rotary and the Five Schools of Excellence is an African trailblazer harnessing the power of multiple stakeholders for the common good of Burundian youth.
Computers for Schools Burundi (CfSB), a project where I volunteer as their Sustainability Analyst using the SOFAIR model is gaining international recognition. CfSB has partnered with Rotary Clubs, nationally and internationally. Rotary is made up of three parts: clubs, Rotary International, and The Rotary Foundation. Collectively, Rotary works to make lasting change in communities and around the world. CfSB, the Rotary Club Bujumbura-Doyen, the Rotary Club Ottawa, and the Rotary Club West Ottawa are working together to analyze a possible grant application through Rotary International. The Rotary Club of New York is providing additional funding. The active board of CfSB is composed of members of local, regional, international companies, nongovernmental organizations, and the government.
I wrote the following article which was featured in Kenya Star:
An African Trailblazer: Computers for Schools Burundi, Rotary and Burundi’s Five Schools of Excellence
Author: drcowinj
Dr. Jasmin (Bey) Cowin, an Associate Professor at Touro University, received the 2024 Touro University CETL Faculty Fellowship for Excellence in Teaching and the Rockefeller Institute of Government awarded her the prestigious Richard P. Nathan Public Policy Fellowship (2024-2025). As a Fulbright Scholar and SIT Graduate, she was selected to be a U.S. Department of State English Language Specialist. Her expertise in AI in education is underscored by her role as an AI trainer and former Education Policy Fellow (EPFP™) at Columbia University's Teachers College. As a columnist for Stankevicius, she explores Nicomachean Ethics at the intersection of AI and education. She has contributed to initiatives like Computers for Schools Burundi, served as a resource specialist for Amity University in Uttar Pradesh, India, and participated in TESOL "Train the Trainer" programs in Yemen and Morocco. Her research interests include simulations and metaverse for educators-in-training, AI applications in education and language acquisition and teaching, and distributed ledger technologies, with a focus on her 'Education for 2060' theme.
In conclusion, my commitment extends beyond transactional interactions, focusing instead on utilizing my skills and privileges to make a positive, enduring impact on the world.
View all posts by drcowinj
Dr. J's Education Blog 