*Personal Paraguay 1811: Bringing History to Life Without Internet
In Paraguay, the digital divide is stark: 92% of public schools and 50% of private schools lack internet access and public libraries, despite the fact that there are more cell phones than inhabitants. This paradox inspired Personal Paraguay to bridge the gap in a creative and accessible way.
On Paraguay’s Independence Day, Personal Paraguay launched *1811, a unique initiative commemorating the year of the nation’s independence. This new service, accessible by dialing *1811 from any Personal phone line, acts like a podcast, offering episodes about Paraguayan history in both Spanish and Guaraní. Importantly, this service does not require an internet connection, making it accessible to the vast majority of the population.
The inspiration for *1811 came from familiar emergency numbers like 911 for police or 132 for firefighters. By dialing *1811, users can listen to educational content, turning their phones into a tool for learning and cultural enrichment. This service aims to provide valuable educational resources to students and the general public, particularly in areas where internet access is limited.
While *1811 is a fantastic resource for Personal phone line users, Personal Paraguay also wanted to ensure wider accessibility. To achieve this, they made the same episodes available on Spotify. Now, anyone with internet access can enjoy these educational podcasts, broadening the reach of this important initiative.
This professional campaign, titled ‘*1811’, was launched in May 2024 by Personal Paraguay in collaboration with the ad agency Oniria\TBWA. The campaign is a prime example of using technology and creativity to address public interest issues. By leveraging a simple phone line, Personal Paraguay has made a significant impact on education and cultural awareness in the country.
The *1811 campaign not only celebrates Paraguayan history but also sets a precedent for how companies can use their resources to benefit society. By offering educational content freely and accessibly, Personal Paraguay demonstrates a commitment to improving education and bridging the digital divide.
In conclusion, the *1811 initiative by Personal Paraguay is a pioneering effort to bring history and education to everyone, regardless of internet access. It highlights the power of innovation in addressing social challenges and the role of businesses in creating meaningful change. Through *1811, Personal Paraguay is not just commemorating the past but also paving the way for a more informed and connected future.
