90% of the population surrounding Cancuén lives in poverty.
There are only 2 rural high schools in the state of Alta Verapaz although 80% of the population is rural.
The success of Ak’ Tenamit’s Father Tom Moran Education Center prompted Guatemala’s government to propose that Ak’ Tenamit replicate its model in Alta Verapaz, one of Guatemala’s poorest regions. Ak’ Tenamit’s Board of Directors approved expansion in 2009.
The new 500-acre campus will be located near the Cancuén archeological site in Alta Verapaz. The site is home to the Vanderbilt Institute of Mesoamerican Archeology and Development and Ak’ Tenamit has partnered with Vanderbilt to secure a 25-year, renewable land lease.
This campus will offer two innovative degrees that are appropriate for this region’s job market and local needs. Students will study Mayan Archeology and Tropical Forest Management and work with world-renowned Mayan archeologists such as Dr. Arthur Demarest.
Over the past five years, 84% of GTF revenues have gone directly to project Ak' Tenamit in Guatemala.
