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The Global Junior Challenge(HLworks/Trips/Rome2000)

Who's Who at the Global Junior Challenge

by Nicole Farrow and Jianna Caines
Photos by Staff
more URLs to be added later

 

Technology is a universal language that connects places worlds apart. As this story is read, another country is gaining access to the technology that many people in the United States has already explored and put into use. Because this, an organization by the name of the Global Junior Challenge is promoting communication between nations via information technologies. It brought hundreds of countries together to not only compete, but to also share and exchange knowledge that will shape the future of all people as a human race.

On December 4,2000 in Rome, all of the competitors showcased their website projects for others to see. Even though many of the presenters did not speak English, and no translator was present, the purpose of their web site was clear. This is evident in their creativity, skill, and eagerness to impact the world through various technologies. The project, Little Horus, (http://Little-Horus.com) from Cairo, Egypt, is a great example of this. "Many people still believe that Egyptians are still riding camels to school and are only filled with pyramids, this is not true" says 14 year old Rosheen from Cairo. Their project not only focuses on the history of Egypt, but also its present day.

They are helping to change many preconceived notions about Egyptian society. "We have businesses and technology just like other places" 12 year old Ingy explains. Egypt is growing and stereotypes are preventing its advancement.

Although the technical support was not demonstrated by the youth, project IBS from Italy, proved to be extremely professional, creative and informative. With graphics depicting of Bart Simpson and Tomb Rider the video game, this site is definitely an eye catcher that could hold a two year olds attention.

But wait there's more, the content of this site focuses on the issues that face the people of Italy, as well as other parts of the world. From drugs to community events, there is always something that can be learned from the exploration of the site that may change or alter one's view of society.

Another interesting project was Virgilio, created by students of a local Roman high school. This site's goal is to educate the world of Rome's past present and future. Various students within the school produce articles confronting the issues within Rome. Issues such as relations with the United States, dealing with communism, and the educational system (just to name a few). This organization allowed teenagers to present and write about sophisticated topics that they are confronted with everyday within their community, much like HarlemLive. Also, this site provides translations for students audiences who are not familiar with the Italian language.

"This site not only educates the students, said Gabriel an 18 years old participant of the site. The global Junior Challenge was a great opportunity to herald the importance of technology upon education for youth. The world is changing everyday, providing many with the tools needed to excel in today's society. All of the projects demonstrated the power of generation next and of generation now. It was inspirational to see people working together to pursue international understanding via the Internet All in all, the Global Junior challenge proved to HarlemLive and the world that creativity and education can never be suppressed as long as there are minds who are ready, willing and able.

 

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