Today was not my groups site visit day, however, my time spent at Stargate and Technopark was extremely informational and well spent. Throughout the Stargate visit, I noticed several common themes in the work being done when comparing my company, ANDD. Stargate’s mission was focused on giving startups the support and resources they need to grow, no cost required. To me, I think this is such an awesome concept and program because it allows anyone to become an entrepreneur if they really put their mind to it. I also couldn’t help but to wonder how much a service like this would cost in America, it would probably be a subscription or monthly based payment plan system. Similarly, ANDD operates as a nonprofit organization committed to long-term development.

I really enjoyed the Technopark tour and experience. The hard-working environment that they have created is obvious and contagious. After the tour ended I wanted to ask the President where I sign up. Some of the statistics were extremely impressive, a 100% post-grad job placement and a 99% graduation rate are just some numbers that show how much of a well-oiled machine the school is. Like all of Morocco, Technopark feels like another ticking time bomb until it explodes in popularity, although the application process is no joke.

As my group and I continue to develop my report on ANDD, these details and observations will shape both my perspective and the questions I want to further investigate. One question I already have is how the company engages with lower-class communities that might be unable to participate in such digital training programs. ANDD focuses on the expansion of access to technology and digital literacy for women and children, but it will be nice to hear tangible numbers to connect this mission statement back to. The distinction between successfully teaching and connection with lower-class individuals compared to individuals who are already motivated to seek out digital opportunities and classes on their own is important because this is what directly relates to the organization’s mission. Real development involves more than simply offering programs, it also requires actively reaching the people who are in true need of the skills. These are the people that are mentally able to complete the program, but may be hesitant, and lack the required access and resources needed to enter the digital world on their own. This is what ANDD is for.