ARES is a ruggedized education system, providing online educational material for children and schools in remote areas. The two Rotarians responsible for ARES are Bonnie Sutherland of North Delta Rotary and Mark Knittel of Bellingham Rotary, working with many other District 5050 Rotary Clubs and Rotarians.
The pilot program started in central Kenya in 2015 and has grown to other parts of Kenya and Africa, as well as to the Philippines. Plans are being developed to bring ARES to remote, rural First Nations communities in Canada.
ARES consists of a server filled with digital books, educational videos, interactive technology and more, for students from kindergarten to Grade 12. Students connect by laptops or other wireless devices. Teachers are also provided with a projector and speakers for full classroom presentations, and earbuds for individual student learning.
Our philosophy is that if you truly want to change the world, you begin by educating the children. If you are interested in learning more about ARES, email Sean Hogan or visit the District 5050 ARES website.
The Basic Education and Literacy Action Group (www.litrag.org) provides additional information and support.
