Peace Corps Volunteer Promotes Computer Literacy in Cameroon

Washington — Peace Corps volunteer Christian Freymeyer of Ocean Pines, Maryland, is working with his community in Cameroon to refurbish a school computer lab and boost its energy supply so more students can participate in computer lessons.

"Technology breeds innovation; however, in this rural high school in Cameroon, students are unable to receive adequate instruction in computer science due to the lack of basic infrastructure," said Freymeyer, according to a July 30 Peace Corps news release.

"While the school has more than 12 computers, only four are able to run at one time because the power voltage to the school is very low," he said.

The planned improvements will increase the school's electrical energy and install voltage regulators, surge protectors and new computer desks and chairs. Once the project is complete, the school's 12 computers will be operable at the same time.

The school administration, teachers and community representatives have all pledged to contribute to the project as well as donate goods and labor. Freymeyer will also train a committee to help maintain the new equipment.

"This community is forward-thinking and members understand that computer literacy is crucial to this generation's success," Freymeyer said. "This project aims to prepare students for their future, and computer literacy is becoming more and more essential."

Freymeyer, a graduate of Christopher Newport University, has been working as a computer literacy teacher in Cameroon since June 2011. To fix up the lab, he will use funds raised through the Peace Corps Partnership Program, which helps support Peace Corps volunteer community projects worldwide.

To receive funding through the Partnership Program, a community must make a 25 percent contribution to the total cost of the project and outline success indicators for it. This helps to ensure community ownership and a greater chance of long-term sustainability.

Nearly 3,380 Peace Corps volunteers have served in Cameroon since the program was established in 1962, and 231 volunteers are now serving in the country. They work in the areas of education, environment, agriculture, health, business and information technology. They are trained and work in Pidgin English and French.

For more on the Peace Corps and its work to promote peace, friendship and understanding worldwide, visit the Peace Corps website.