Royal Treatment for OLPC and Indigenous Youth

Indigenous youth get the Royal treatment

On September 28th, 2016, One Laptop per Child (OLPC) Canada Executive Director Jennifer Martino had the unique opportunity to speak to Prince William and Kate Middleton about the role of OLPC technology in revitalizing Indigenous languages.

OLPC was invited by the Prince’s Charities of Canada to participate in a Royal tour event at the MacBride Museum in Whitehorse, Yukon. The event unveiled a new book, “Hide and Seek,” written in the Southern Tutchone language and published by Mike Parkhill of SayITFirst. Their Royal Highnesses participated in a story circle with Indigenous youth from the Dusk’a Head Start Learning Centre. A digital copy of the book and accompanying video was made available to student participants on OLPC laptops donated to the Family Learning Centre. Students also received a copy of the children’s book Small Saul, compliments of TD Bank Group. It was an honour to participate in this special event and to meet the many people who contributed to its success.

What’s next for OLPC Canada?

In the coming year, the OLPC Canada team will work to foster youth-led revitalization of Indigenous languages using digital tools. Upcoming initiatives will see students develop skills in programming while participating in an intergenerational exchange of traditional knowledge. Students will also be provided with much needed access to technology though a permanent donation of laptops and desktops to participating schools and community organizations.

Thank you for your continued support of OLPC Canada’s mission to enhance education for Indigenous students. Please look out for updates and opportunities on our website www.olpccanada.com.

Warm regards,

Jennifer Martino
Executive Director
OLPC Canada
martino@olpccanada.com
www.olpccanada.com