With the move to online instruction and disruption to travel-based courses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, students are turning to technology-supported global experiences. At the same time, NGOs around the world are struggling to support our most vulnerable populations, seeking new partnerships and growth possibilities. Through the University at Buffalo Experiential Learning Network (ELN), we are connecting these two areas of opportunity- global experiences and NGO partnerships, through mentored virtual projects. Students engage in our Project Portal at their own pace at no additional cost, eliminating traditional barriers to access and encouraging students from all areas of study and background to participate in high-impact projects. Presenters will highlight five student projects completed during summer 2020, featuring engagement with PriHEMAC, a Nigerian-based NGO focusing on health care and elderly friendliness, and Hope Revival Children’s Organization (HRCO), a Tanzanian nonprofit focusing on women’s empowerment and community development.
Presenters
Gideon Adeniyi, Program Officer, PriHEMAC
Mara B. Huber, PhD, Associate Dean for Undergraduate Research and Experiential Learning, Director of Experiential Learning Network University at Buffalo
Stephen Marwa, Executive Director, Hope Revival Children’s Organization
Moderated by: Jan McCauley, Assistant Director of the State University of New York’s Center for Collaborative Online Learning