In Moldova, a remarkable partnership between HP and YMCA is making significant strides in education and community support, creating a unique model not seen elsewhere in the world. This collaboration has launched several key initiatives, making an impactful contribution to both refugee and host community education.
Firstly, through the Global Business Coalition for Education, HP has facilitated a large-scale equipment donation initiative. This program, implemented by YMCA Europe and executed by YMCA Moldova, has seen the distribution of laptops to schools, universities, community centers, and NGOs.
These devices are vital in supporting both formal and informal educational efforts. On a recent visit to several recipient institutions, the profound impact of these resources was evident, with over 250,000 beneficiaries reached in 2023 alone, including 6,320 Ukrainian refugees.
A significant milestone was the opening of the first HP Gaming Garage in Europe, located at the YMCA Moldova center in a unique setup: a natural cave cellar. This initiative offers an innovative space for tech and gaming enthusiasts.
The project was inaugurated with the support of Chisinau City Hall and local municipal leaders, including the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Chisinau.
Additionally, the HP LIFE learning initiative, an entrepreneurship program from the HP Foundation, has been launched at the YMCA Moldova center. This program is set to expand to the new Municipal business incubator, which was also opened recently, showcasing a thriving day of developments in the capital.
Furthermore, the HP Innovation and Digital Education Academy (HP IDEA) is being implemented in collaboration with YMCA Moldova. This one-year educational pathway provides weekly learning sessions for a select group of about 200 innovative practitioners and instructional leaders, enabling them to develop digital capabilities based on educational frameworks from leading global universities.
“The partnership between YMCA Moldova and YMCA in general is very important for HP. HP has the mission of accelerating digital equity for 150 million people by 2030. And we cannot achieve this alone because it only works through collaboration. YMCA Moldova, by opening this centre, offers many opportunities for the youth here, and we are proud that HP is part of this wonderful thing,” mentioned Markus Schwertel, Director, Government Affairs & Public Policy at HP Inc.
YMCA Moldova’s Community Resources & Development Centre is located in the historical center of Chisinau, Columna street 106, a historical building built between 1853-1854. Over time, the building hosted historical and political personalities such as Emperor Alexander II of Russia, Grand Duke Nikolai Nikolaevich, and other famous names of European political and cultural life.
This dynamic partnership between HP and YMCA Moldova is a beacon of innovation and educational support, setting a precedent for how technology and cooperative efforts can lead to substantial community benefits. As these programs continue to evolve and expand, the promise of enhanced educational opportunities and community development in Moldova grows ever stronger.
