In the Ecuadorian province of Morona Santiago, access to higher education has historically been limited for many young people living in remote Indigenous communities. Financial barriers, distance from universities, and limited academic opportunities have prevented many students from continuing their studies after secondary school. Solaris Resources’ Warintza Educa scholarship program was created to change that reality.
Since 2019, the program has funded university and technical scholarships for students pursuing careers in areas including psychology, engineering, tourism, accounting, and business administration.
The initiative is part of Solaris Resources’ commitment to community development at its Warintza Project, one of the most promising copper development assets worldwide, where long-term investment in local education and professional training has become a priority.
Expanding Educational Access in Morona Santiago
Warintza Educa was developed to support students who demonstrated academic potential but lacked the economic means to continue their studies.
The program provides financial assistance for higher education while also supporting students through academic follow-up, leadership development, and professional preparation activities during their studies.
To date, Solaris Resources has awarded 89 university and technical scholarships through Warintza Educa, including 39 scholarships granted to women. Several recipients are the first university graduates in their families.
For many students in Morona Santiago, attending university involves moving far from home to cities with significantly higher living expenses. The program was designed to help students navigate those challenges and complete their education successfully.
Strengthening Local Capacity
Warintza Educa was established with a long-term community focus, aligned with the future development of the region surrounding the Warintza Project.
Several graduates have already entered the workforce through roles with the Warintza Project, helping Solaris Resources build local capacity through education and workforce development.
The initiative is creating greater opportunities for Indigenous youth by increasing access to professional careers that were previously difficult for many families in remote areas to attain.
Investment in the Community
Solaris Resources has integrated educational investment into its wider community engagement strategy at Warintza. The company’s approach includes long-term agreements and collaborative processes with local Shuar communities, with a focus on employment, training, participation, and regional development.
Through this, Warintza Educa has become a key social investment initiative for the Warintza Project, creating educational opportunities supporting long-term professional growth. Its structure combines scholarship funding with ongoing academic support and leadership training to prepare students for future careers, many of which are with the company itself.
Recognition for Impact
Earlier this month, Warintza Educa received recognition at the EKOS Sustainability Summit for its contribution to United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which promotes quality education.
The recognition highlights the program’s measurable growth since its launch in 2019 and its contribution to expanding access to higher education in communities near the Warintza Project.
Through Warintza Educa, Solaris Resources is supporting the development of a growing network of students and graduates from Morona Santiago who are pursuing professional careers while contributing to the long-term development of their communities in the Ecuadorian Amazon.
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