Haiti: Rasin Devlopman Foundation Expands Digital Training for Youth in La Gonâve 

In Pointe-à-Raquette, on Haiti’s La Gonâve island, the Rasin Devlopman Foundation is working to transform how young people use technology by turning digital exposure into a tool for learning and empowerment.

On the island of La Gonâve, the Rasin Devlopman Foundation is continuing its efforts to promote digital education among young people. In Pointe-à-Raquette, the organization has launched the second year of its computer training program called “Ankadre Enfomatik,” designed for teenagers in the community.

The initiative aims to provide structured guidance for adolescents as access to digital technologies continues to grow. In many cases, young people’s first contact with the digital world occurs through smartphones and social media platforms such as TikTok. Program leaders say they want to encourage a more constructive use of these tools.

Transforming digital consumption into learning

For the program’s mentors, the objective is clear: help teenagers move beyond simply consuming online content and instead become users who can create, learn, and develop skills that may benefit their future.

“Technology is a powerful tool for transformation, but without proper guidance it can distract rather than empower,” said Louino Robillard, director of programs at the foundation.

According to Robillard, many young people discover the internet mainly through entertainment platforms. Without supervision, early exposure can contribute to excessive screen time, reduced concentration, or access to inappropriate content.

The program therefore focuses on teaching responsible and productive uses of technology.

First participants join the initiative

The training program first launched in July 2025 with a cohort of 13 adolescents aged 12 to 17.

At the beginning of 2026, 11 additional participants joined the initiative, despite the foundation operating with limited computer equipment.

The program includes:

• Introduction to basic computer skills (Word, Excel, and internet navigation)
• Techniques for online research and responsible web use
• Critical thinking about social media use
• Practical digital skills relevant for education and employment

For Youdlet Louigène, the project coordinator, prevention is a key aspect of the initiative.

“If young people understand the benefits of digital tools before bad habits take root, we can help many of them,” he said.

Seeking partners to expand the program

To expand the initiative and welcome more students, the Rasin Devlopman Foundation is appealing for support from partners and donors.

The organization says it needs:

• Laptop computers
• Tablets
• Smartphones
• Financial assistance to sustain the program

In a region often facing limited educational and technological resources, the foundation hopes the project will open new opportunities for young people in La Gonâve and strengthen their ability to navigate an increasingly digital world.