In the rural areas of Urrao, hundreds of children and young people have had to face precarious conditions for years in order to study: cracked roofs that let the rain in, insufficient desks, deteriorated classrooms, and the absence of clean water or school cafeterias. However, this reality is beginning to change thanks to an alliance between the Government of Antioquia, the Fraternidad Medellín Foundation, and the Berta Martínez Foundation. 

The project aims to dignify rural education and ensure that students have safe, modern, and functional spaces. The initiative includes the construction and improvement of four educational sites in Punta de Ocaidó, Mandé, Vásquez, and La Esperanza, where logistical challenges have been enormous: transporting materials and personnel can take up to twelve hours on muleback through trails, streams, and unstable terrain, in addition to coordinating river transport in hard-to-reach areas. 

Despite these difficulties, the alliance has achieved significant progress thanks to joint efforts with local communities. The new facilities will include: 

• Safe, bright classrooms with waterproof roofs and adequate furniture.

• Reliable potable water and modern restrooms that guarantee hygiene.

• Kitchens and school cafeterias that foster dignified and shared meals.

• Stable solar energy to power laboratories, computer rooms, and audiovisual equipment.

• Recreational spaces where the community can carry out different activities.

• School gardens that promote healthy habits and environmental care.

• Continuous teacher training with innovative methodologies to enrich teaching.

This project will not only benefit students but will also serve as a community hub for cultural, sports, and educational activities. With this initiative, the Fraternidad Medellín Foundation reaffirms its commitment to educational equity and the transformation of territories, convinced that rural education deserves the same quality and dignity as any urban school.