Sidebar #68 - Tech Corps

A recent development from the Trump administration that may have flown under the radar due to other global events was the announcement of a “Tech Corps” within the Peace Corps. Details are still somewhat thin on what exactly a Tech Corps will entail; however, we do know that the agency will seek to matriculate volunteers with a background in STEM and/or technology to promote American AI interests. 

There has been a varied response from the peace Corps community since the announcement. Some think that it’s a bold way to adapt to the times and to ensure that the Peace Corps stays relevant in the diplomatic and development spheres, particularly vis-a-vis a growing Chinese influence. Others think it strays too far from Peace Corps’ approach to development and doesn’t reflect how they perceive the agency. No doubt, it will be fascinating to observe how the introduction of a Tech Corps shapes the future and identity of the Peace Corps going forward. Personally, I don't know exactly how it will unfold, but I like how the agency is thinking creatively in order to modernize.

If interested, you can read more about the tech corps on the Peace Corps' website here: https://www.peacecorps.gov/tech/

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