2005 Programs

Digital Unite in South Dakota

In the information age, only a small percentage of the world population have access the internet. In this new era, when information is worth more than gold, the vast majority of youth worldwide can neither tap into it nor share in its unique wealth. With each new generation, the digital divide widens.

The TEKIO Digital Unite Iniatiative will provide a much needed bridge for youth in targeted communities around the world where internet access is still not readily available. The first of these will be launched following the Green Room and TEKIO activities at the Native American World Peace and Prayer Day (WPPD) Event in the Black Hills of South Dakota (see website at http://www.worldpeaceandprayerday.org) The TEKIO Digital Unite will set up a permanent training facility nearby native reservations in South Dakota. This training center will provice a safe and accessible place for local youth entrepreneurs to develop and practice skills in social and environmental restoration. TEKIOtron trainers will have already begun to train local youth trainers in the months prior to the WPPD event. These emerging entrepreneurs will be given an opportunity to have ongoing practical experience in their new skills within a permanent training center near home. In the center, they will be equipped with the most advanced computers connected to an educational internet portal, complete with advanced course curricula, fun youth networking opportunities and sustainable career ideas.

Digital Unite Project Objectives

  1. Provide internet access to Native American youth nearby reservations.
  2. Create permanent incubator training center for environmental and social restoration programs in targeted communities.
  3. Create a systematic and modular approach to learning which can be showcased and replicated in other parts of the world.
  4. Provide a safe place for youth to gather and network with others worldwide.
  5. Encourage youth who are interested in pursuing careers in social and environmental restoration.
  6. Provide a fun place for learning about social and environmental sustainability.