The Mayan Center

Mayan Center student teaches primary school student tecniques of transplanting

The Mayan Center, a one-of-a-kind training facility, is designed to invest local youth with the knowledge and skills they need to make positive, long-term changes in their communities.   The school’s specialty in agro-forestry is particularly suited to this purpose.  The Center serves as a demonstration and agricultural training hub for outlying villages.  Primary schools have engaged our staff and students to teach techniques of sustainable food production to the youngsters.

The residential center offers both academic and vocational programs designed to prepare the students for immediate employment and leadership roles in the region.  Students participate in all aspects of running and maintaining the center, including growing and preparing food, caring for food animals, and maintenance upkeep of the Center. 

New book for the school library

In addition to academic studies,  the Mayan Center offers courses in professional and vocational subjects taught by local and international educators and experts. Graduating students receive their diplomas from Guatemala’s Ministry of Education.

Scholarship Program

Students have access to the only computer lab in 260 villages

All students who attend the Mayan Center receive scholarships that cover their room, board and tuition. Scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis to students drawn from 260 villages in north Barillas, Huehuetenango, who demonstrate leadership potential and high academic ability.  As a scholarship condition, students are required to serve their communities by participating with the people in projects such as vegetable gardens.  The projects are managed by the village leaders, the students and a Mayan Center teacher.  The goal is to strengthen students’ leaderships skills, expand vital knowledge in the villages, and at the same time demonstrate how the Mayan Center benefits outlying communities.

How to Contribute to the Mayan Center

There are a variety of ways to help support the Mayan Center. Donors can provide full or partial scholarships, or contribute to ongoing projects, including the library, rainwater collection system, solar power system, school kitchen and teachers’ quarters. Click here to give now.