Students from the fashion design program at Instituto Superior Tecnológico Ocho de Noviembre have completed a project aimed at supporting children in San Roque. The initiative, titled “Conexión Cultural – Designing from the Roots of Piñas: Footprints Painted with Identity,” involved transforming 32 pairs of shoes into works of art reflecting local flora, fauna, and cultural identity. These were distributed to students from Dr. Guillermo Guzmán Ayora, 13 de Abril – Chuva, and 27 de Febrero schools.
The project was organized in coordination with the Rural Parish Decentralized Autonomous Government (GAD) of San Roque. First-year students applied mixed painting techniques, color theory, and design skills to turn ordinary footwear into items that aim to strengthen community identity.
“Linkage projects are the connection between academics and our environment; they drive social responsibility by turning learning into practical solutions for vulnerable sectors,” said Nixon Paladines, Rector of the institute.
The project was made possible through collaboration between public and private sectors: Tannhauser Enterprise donated the footwear; GAD Parroquial provided painting materials; and IST Ocho de Noviembre contributed technical and academic expertise.
Pedro Gallardo, president of GAD Parroquial, expressed gratitude for the cooperation: “These projects not only help those who need it most but also recover our cultural identity.”
Students described the experience as transformative. María de los Ángeles Román said it allowed her to connect more deeply with her parish’s roots. Juan Joseph González called it a significant learning opportunity: “We found that design can generate smiles and leave a positive mark on childhood.”
The Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture stated its ongoing commitment to strengthening technical education in Ecuador by integrating academic training with local traditions and emphasizing both educational excellence and social service as part of national development.
