On January 24, International Education Day was celebrated around the globe, emphasizing the role of international education in creating a more connected world. In commemoration of this important date, we would like to spotlight a Grantee Project that was part of the 2022 US-Andean Innovation Fund Grant Competition “Knowledge and Cultural Exchange Through the built Environment: Inti Wasi Housing” between the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma, United States, and Universidad Nacional del Altiplano, Puno, Peru.
Students who participated in the Inti Wasi program had a life-changing experience. During their time in Peru, they collaborated with local students to plan and design a solution to the affordable housing shortage within the Andes. They were able to experience a different culture and see firsthand the challenges faced by people in the region. Through travel study and service learning, they were able to find solutions to a real-world problem. The work they did on sustainable and affordable cold-climate housing has the potential to positively impact the entire Andean highland, and not just the immediate community of Puno.
This is just one example of the power of international education. By studying abroad, students gain a global perspective, develop cross-cultural communication skills, and build a network of friends and colleagues from diverse backgrounds. These experiences are invaluable in today’s interconnected world, where collaboration and understanding are essential for success.
As we celebrate International Education Day, let’s remember the important role that programs like 100,000 Strong in the Americas play in promoting global understanding and cooperation. We look forward to seeing more success stories like this in the future.