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Centro Educativo Pavarotti (Pavarotti Education Center) is a junior high school for children aged 12–17 located near Lake Atitlán in San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala. The center is an initiative of the Rigoberta Menchú Foundation (specifically the Utizal Tijonikel Program), which is an institution accredited for its contributions to the defense of human rights especially of indigenous peoples which impels educational programs, citizen participation, community development and combating impunity. The center serves approximately 200 Guatemalan children.
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History
The center was built in 2005 with money donated by Italian opera singer Luciano Pavarotti because Pavarotti wanted to establish a school that could teach arts and crafts to Guatemalan war orphans. Soon after it was built, the center merged with the foundation of Nobel Peace Prize recipient and promoter of indigenous rights, Rigoberta Menchú.
Curriculum
Students attend a variety of classes including Spanish, English, mathematics, weaving, carpentry, computing, and art. They are also taught the indigenous Kaqchikel language and Kaqchikel math to preserve the traditional Mayan wisdom. The Utizal Tijonikel Program's purpose is to teach "doing good". Their vision includes sustainable education while maintaining respect for diverse cultures. Their mission is to foster youth leaders who are pro-peace and pro-human rights.
Volunteer Opportunities
The Rigoberta Menchú Foundation promotes "Intercultural Solidarity Tourism", a program which gives college students and educational institutions the opportunity to interact with the Mayan people and learn about the indigenous culture. Participants can volunteer in classrooms by helping with lessons, teaching languages, and interacting with students. They will learn about the Mayan calendar, Kaqchikel language, culture, rituals, and the Guatemalan Civil War. The aim is interculturalism and solidarity between people of different cultures. Volunteers can also visit local communities and traditional tourist sites such as Antigua and Iximche.