First Day of Service: A Remarkable Beginning

Our global navigators’ first day of service kicked off with immense enthusiasm as they joined forces with the remarkable Mercy Association for Development and Environment (جمعية الرحمة للتنمية والبيئة). This inspiring organization is dedicated to transforming education and supporting youth by cultivating interest in various fields such as machine learning, programming, data science, STEM, and many more subjects.

With the motto "Learning for Life," Alt A is steadfast in its mission to combat digital ignorance while fostering a lifelong love for education. This transformative organization operates through its five interconnected stations, each designed to empower and equip individuals with essential skills for the modern world.

At the first station, the children's space, young learners between the ages of 4 and 7 engage in games and arts, building their sensory and cognitive skills while laying the groundwork for programming fundamentals. The second station introduces Lego Education, where children delve into mechanics, programming, coding, and problem-solving, all within the framework of creating Lego robots that ignite their imagination and creativity.

Moving on to the third station, the focus shifts to coding and programming. Through playful and engaging activities, participants explore various programming languages, seamlessly integrating learning with enjoyment. The fourth station, aptly named "maintenance," emphasizes recycling and assembling materials to build practical items, nurturing participants’ interaction with diverse materials and preparing them for the fifth station.

The fifth station, the maker space, serves as a hub for creativity and innovation. Here, participants are introduced to 3D printers and a multitude of machines, enabling them to embark on a journey of creating robots, starting from the simplest tasks to tackling more complex challenges. The comprehensive curriculum covers every step of the robot-building process, empowering participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to bring their ideas to life.

Alt A's ultimate goal is to foster language diversity, project creation, self-sufficiency, and a shift from being passive consumers to active producers. By cultivating a community that is well-versed in technology, Alt A envisions a future where individuals are equipped to thrive in the digital age.

As our global navigators commence their service journey with Alt A, they will witness firsthand the power of education, creativity, and community in shaping a generation of knowledgeable and empowered individuals.

The topics covered during the three weeks of service, including English mentoring, environmental awareness, and arts, represent just a glimpse of the diverse range of activities students will engage in. These focused topics serve as a sample of the broader array of initiatives students will participate in throughout their impactful journey of leadership and service.

Upon arrival, the students were warmly received by the service site members who introduced them to the NGO's mission and goals. A comprehensive tour showcased the diverse specialized stations, including programming, robotics, 3D printing, machine learning, VR, English tutoring, children's playground, and arts and crafts. The students were immersed in an environment teeming with innovation and creativity.

With a delightful spread of Moroccan mint tea and traditional Msemmen and Beghrir (Moroccan pancakes) prepared by the service site members, the students had the opportunity to engage and connect with the youth involved in the program. The positive interactions and welcoming atmosphere created an exhilarating experience for everyone involved.

The service site youth and our global navigators will be sharing their expertise, knowledge, and experiences throughout the program, making the service a mutual learning experience. The students gained insights into the local culture, community challenges, and the importance of environmental stewardship. Simultaneously, language learning skills, artistic talents, and passion for STEM subjects will be shared, igniting curiosity and inspiration among the service site youth and our global navigators.

As the day drew to a close, the students bid farewell to the service site members, their hearts filled with gratitude and joy. The warm smiles exchanged symbolized the meaningful connections forged and the immense value of this service experience.

The first day of service with the Mercy Association for Development and Environment marked a remarkable beginning to our students' journey of leadership and service. Through collaboration, cultural exchange, and shared passions, they are not only empowering local youth but also nurturing their own personal and academic growth. As we continue this incredible partnership, we eagerly anticipate the transformative impact it will have on all participants. Stay tuned for more updates as our students embark on new adventures in leadership and service for youth development.