Shakira visits quake-damaged schools in Colombia; announces major education aid; pledges university support | English Movie News

Shakira Rallies Support for Earthquake-Devastated Colombian Communities, Pledges Multi-Million Dollar Educational Aid

QUIBDÓ, COLOMBIA – September 28, 2024 – Global music icon Shakira has made a poignant visit to the earthquake-stricken communities of Quibdó, Chocó, in Colombia, following the devastating seismic event on August 10th. The Grammy-winning artist utilized her powerful platform to shed light on the profound challenges faced by children and families in the affected region, while simultaneously announcing a comprehensive package of initiatives designed to restore educational infrastructure and support the return of students to classrooms.

During her visit, documented with photographs and videos shared on her Instagram account, Shakira toured schools that bore the brunt of the earthquake’s force. Her message resonated with hope and resilience: "Colombia is hurting, but Colombia is not broken. These past few days, I’ve seen something powerful – people showing up for each other, especially for our kids."

A Unified Effort for Educational Recovery: $1 Million Pledged

At the forefront of these recovery efforts is Shakira’s Fundación Pies Descalzos, which is collaborating with several key organizations. The immediate focus is on educational rebuilding. Shakira proudly announced a significant financial injection: "That’s why I’m so proud to announce that the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund is dedicating $500,000, working hand in hand with Pies Descalzos, to support children returning to the classroom."

Further amplifying this commitment, Live Nation has pledged to match the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund’s contribution, bringing the total financial support dedicated to educational recovery to a substantial $1 million. This critical funding arrives as schools and educational institutions across the region grapple with extensive damage, providing both immediate relief and a crucial foundation for long-term reconstruction.

Personal Commitment to Higher Education and Future Generations

Beyond the immediate relief for primary and secondary education, Shakira demonstrated a profound personal commitment to the future of the region’s youth. She announced her personal pledge to contribute resources towards the reconstruction of the Technological University of Quibdó. This institution holds a special significance for Fundación Pies Descalzos, as many graduates from the foundation’s affiliated schools reportedly continue their higher education there. "I am also committing my personal resources to the reconstruction of the Technological University of Quibdó, where many of our @fpiesdescalzos graduates go on to continue their higher education," Shakira stated.

Ambitious Plans for New Schools in Chocó

Looking ahead, Shakira revealed an ambitious project to bolster educational infrastructure with the construction of entirely new facilities. In a significant announcement, she confirmed that the Howard G. Buffett Foundation will partner with Fundación Pies Descalzos to build 10 new schools in Chocó.

"I am also very pleased to announce that the Howard G. Buffett Foundation has committed to building, alongside Pies Descalzos, 10 new schools in Chocó," Shakira shared. She then issued a call to action for broader participation: "Everyone can join in the effort to help our kids through this crisis. If you’re a registered nonprofit, or you know of one doing this work, I encourage you to register your interest and share your story with us." These planned schools are set to play a pivotal role in re-establishing robust educational opportunities for communities impacted by the earthquake.

Devastation Wreaked by the Colombian Earthquake

The earthquake of August 10th inflicted widespread destruction across Colombia, leading to a tragic loss of life and extensive damage to infrastructure. According to figures reported by Xinhua news agency on August 14th, the disaster claimed 273 lives, with 3,824 people injured and 377 still missing. The scale of property damage was immense, with 12,584 homes destroyed and an additional 74,873 damaged. Furthermore, 172 buildings collapsed, and critical infrastructure was severely impacted, including 2,198 schools and educational institutions, 825 community centers, 216 health centers, and five airports. Shakira’s initiatives directly address the profound educational infrastructure crisis resulting from this catastrophe.

Shakira’s Enduring Global Impact

While her humanitarian efforts in Colombia continue, Shakira remains a vibrant force on the international music scene. Her latest major musical work is reportedly the official anthem for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ‘Dai Dai,’ featuring Burna Boy, which she performed during the World Cup Final halftime show in July 2026. This project follows her critically acclaimed 2024 studio album, ‘Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran,’ further solidifying her status as a global icon whose influence extends far beyond the realm of entertainment.