Nicaragua is generally considered the second poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, with the average citizen making under $1,000 per year. The cost of tuition at most Nicaraguan universities begins at nearly $400 per year. While this may seem insignificant compared to the cost of tertiary education in the U.S., it is prohibitive for the majority of graduating high school students.

Nicaragua is a country that is on the cusp of major economic breakthroughs in tourism and specialty-goods markets. These industries not only require individuals trained in the skills that make businesses run, but also in the skills necessary for major infrastructure development and improved food security. Additionally, the country needs an infusion of qualified teachers at the elementary and high school levels. Based on these needs, Help Educate sponsors highly qualified students with economic hardships to study towards bachelors’ degrees in civil engineering, business administration, agriculture, computer systems engineering and education.

Population: 5.8 million
Percent below poverty line: 48%
Age distribution: 0-14 years: 35.5% 15-64 years: 61.3% 65 years and over: 3.2%
Infant mortality rate: 27.14 deaths/1,000 live births
GDP - per capita: $937
Roadways: total: 11,898 miles paved: 1,437miles unpaved: 10,461 miles
Natural Resources: gold, silver, copper, tungsten, lead, zinc, timber, fish, fresh water
Major exports: coffee, beef, shrimp and lobster, tobacco, sugar, gold, peanuts