The “Gregor Mendel“ Institute of Pedagogical Higher Education is located in Chuquibambilla, in the department of Apurímac, in an extremely poor and isolated area of Peru at an altitude of 3300 metres above sea level. Here, a large part of the population lives from agriculture and livestock farming and faces extreme poverty.
The Gregorio Mendel Institute was founded in 1968 by Augustinian Missionaries and its mission is to ensure the right to study for young people and prepare the teachers of tomorrow. The initiative allows teenagers in rural areas to complete secondary education in their region, promoting civic and productive inclusion, strengthening the sense of belonging and local and cultural identity. The intervention is also aimed at improving the Institute’s infrastructure and preparing trainers. In December 2025, the Institute obtained university status and is now authorized to award academic degrees and teaching qualifications.
Two project
Of the two projects supported by the Foundation, both with a multi-year duration, the first involves hiring 3 teachers with specific skills for working in complex contexts, such as knowledge of the Quechan language and intercultural education. The initiative allows teenagers in rural areas to complete secondary education in their region, promoting social and work inclusion, strengthening local and cultural identity. The Institute has applied to become a fully-fledged University.
The second project involves building and maintaining a student canteen for the institute, including supplying equipment and hiring staff for effective management.
The first project was developed over a period of 3 years, with a total support of 75,654.00 euros. In 2025 the project was renewed, with approval for extension until 2027. In particular, the Foundation continues to help cover the salaries of 3 teachers for a total commitment of 74,390.45 euros.
In addition to this aid, there is also support for the creation and maintenance of the Institute’s student canteen. As such, with a total contribution of 32,890.00 euros, the food security of students will be guaranteed, also strengthening the values of coexistence, solidarity and social responsibility within the Institute.
