Throughout 2024, YMCA strengthened its digital approach in partnership with HP, broadening the scope of existing projects and launching new initiatives that have profoundly influenced education in Moldova.
In Moldova, the 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.
Digital Educational Hubs Project
Building on the success of 2023, the Digital Educational Hubs project expanded its outreach in 2024, addressing critical educational needs across Moldova. These digital centres enhance YMCA’s educational programmes, community centres, youth clubs, sport centres and refugee support services. Since 2023, more than 300,000 individuals—including young people, Ukrainian refugees, members of marginalised communities and rural areas — have benefited from these hubs.
According to Moldova’s Ministry of Education, the average student-to-computer ratio for 2021–2022 was 17 students per computer, rising to 31 students per computer in Chișinău, the capital. These figures underscore the urgent need for equitable access to digital resources—an area where YMCA’s initiatives are making a tangible difference.
Thanks to a generous donation from HP Inc., over 5,300 brand-new devices were distributed as part of a large-scale programme aimed at accelerating digital inclusion for young people and underserved communities. The initiative not only provides access to modern technology but also promotes essential skills development and educational advancement.
In 2024 alone, YMCA Moldova registered an additional 10,000 unique beneficiaries, bringing the total impact since 2023 to over 310,000 individuals. By establishing these hubs, the organisation has bridged the digital divide, enabling participants to acquire critical digital competencies and improve their future prospects.
HP Gaming Garage
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.
HP LIFE
Additionally, the HP LIFE learning initiative, an entrepreneurship program from the HP Foundation, has been launched at the YMCA Moldova center. Through this program, YMCA`s digital approach is set to expand to the new Municipal business incubator, which was also opened recently, showcasing a thriving day of developments in the capital.
HP IDEA Project
The HP IDEA (HP Innovation and Digital Education Academy) project, designed to modernise educational practices across Moldova, achieved significant progress in 2024. Around 150 teachers participated in training sessions focused on advanced technological tools and innovative teaching methods.
The project follows a phased approach to ensure sustainable impact. In the current phase, teachers are preparing seminars and workshops for their local colleagues, disseminating the innovative practices developed during earlier stages. This approach amplifies the project’s reach and fosters a culture of collaboration, creativity, and continuous improvement in the education sector.
HyperX Equipment Donation
Another noteworthy achievement in 2024 was HP’s donation of HyperX equipment to support digital education. This donation included mousepads, wireless chargers, keyboards, keycaps, and headphones, which were distributed to approximately 70 schools and community centres.
This initiative has transformed traditional classrooms into dynamic, interactive learning environments, enhancing student engagement and fostering the development of digital competencies. YMCA Moldova estimates that about 60,000 direct beneficiaries have utilised these resources, contributing to the digital transformation of educational institutions across Moldova.
Driving Digital Transformation and Educational Equity
These milestones underscore YMCA Moldova’s and HP’s unwavering commitment to driving digital transformation, promoting educational equity, and creating meaningful opportunities for personal and professional development. By equipping communities with the necessary tools and resources, YMCA Moldova continues to inspire positive change and empower individuals to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
This partnership stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in fostering resilience, innovation, and growth, ensuring that education in Moldova remains inclusive, forward-thinking, and impactful.