On 29 May, SPE’s Energy4me program, led by the SPE Ecuador Section, carried out an intensive 1-day training in robotics and energy, benefiting 1,324 children from rural communities in Quito. This achievement was made possible thanks to the commitment of 62 volunteers—young students and professionals from institutions such as Universidad Central del Ecuador, ESPE, ESPOCH, Universidad de Santa Elena, UTA, UDLA, Universidad San Francisco, and Escuela Politécnica Nacional.
The event was also attended by Terry Palisch, 2024 SPE President, and Dalexa Fernandez, SPE Manager of Activities for Latin America and the Caribbean.
With this event, Energy4me has now reached more than 13,000 children across Ecuador, consolidating its position as a key educational initiative promoting science and energy awareness nationwide.
“If we are to meet the world’s continued growth in demand for energy, we will need the best and brightest coming into the industry. STEM education and getting young children interested in math and science are critical to meet this need, and that is the goal for SPE’s Energy4me program,” Palisch said.
Throughout the all-day session, the volunteers shared knowledge, sparked early interest in science, technology, and energy, and ignited in each child the curiosity and enthusiasm to explore and learn.
This initiative was carried out with the endorsement of the Ministry of Education of Ecuador, reinforcing SPE’s commitment to providing high-quality educational opportunities to Amazonian and Andean communities and to promoting the responsible use of natural resources.
Additionally, a knowledge transfer agreement was signed between the Ministry of Education and SPE Ecuador Section, represented by Marielisa Barragán, president of the section, with the aim of scaling this initiative across the entire country.
Prior to this event, 120 teachers were trained in energy and robotics topics, ensuring the continuity and sustainability of knowledge transfer in classrooms nationwide.
SERTECPET served as the event’s strategic partner with Angie Cornejo of SERTECPET and director of Energy4me for the SPE Ecuador Section reflecting on the event. “Preparing for each Energy4me session is a truly enriching experience. Seeing the dedication of our volunteers, the excitement on the children’s faces, and their eagerness to discover a whole new world fills our hearts with joy. We are convinced that we bring energy to a whole new level, inspiring future generations.”