Blockchain Education Labs for Chilean Universities

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

rodrigo oyarzún

[GENERAL] Are you delivering this project as an individual or as an entity (whether formally incorporated or not)

Individual

[GENERAL] Co-proposers and additional applicants

Iván Fredes is a Mechanical Engineer with a Master's degree in Management and Technological Entrepreneurship from UAI. He has extensive experience in laboratory management, asset management, infrastructure setup, and information gathering for projects.

Ivan's Linkedin

Daniel is a Professor of State in Philosophy with a Master's in Political Philosophy from the University of Santiago, and a Doctorate in Moral and Political Philosophy from the University of Chile. With 18 years of experience in education, he has taught various philosophy courses at multiple universities and has held academic leadership positions. His research focuses on ancient philosophy, political philosophy, and ethics, with published articles in both national and international journals.

Daniel's Linkedin

[GENERAL] Please specify how many months you expect your project to last (from 2-12 months)

5

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language

Yes

[GENERAL] Summarize your solution to the problem (200-character limit including spaces)

We will establish blockchain labs in Chilean universities, providing infrastructure, courses, and gamified educational materials to train students, entrepreneurs, and researchers on Cardano technology

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

Yes

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

Yes, our project depends on the collaboration with Chilean universities for providing space, integrating blockchain labs into their infrastructure, and aligning the curriculum with their academic programs. This partnership is essential for delivering the educational courses and ensuring the labs can operate effectively within the institutions.

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

Yes

[GENERAL] Please provide here more information on the open source status of your project outputs

Our project will be fully open source throughout its lifecycle, ensuring that all outputs are available to the community. We intend to use the MIT license, which promotes collaboration and sharing while allowing flexibility in the use of the software. All components of the project, including the curriculum, course materials, and smart contract code developed in the blockchain labs, will be openly accessible through a public repository. This approach encourages transparency, collaboration, and long-term contributions from the global blockchain and academic communities.

[METADATA] Horizons

Education

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

We propose the establishment of a Blockchain Education Center in Chile, in collaboration with Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez (UAI) and Universidad Miguel de Cervantes (UMC). This initiative addresses the need for accessible education and practical resources in blockchain technology, specifically focused on Cardano.

What makes our solution unique is the combination of these two universities' strengths: UAI's expertise in business and technology, and UMC's focus on social sciences and public policy. Together, they create an interdisciplinary environment that enhances both the technical and societal understanding of blockchain. We will draw from the success of ALBA at UTN Buenos Aires to build a strong, integrated ecosystem here in Chile.

This center will offer students, entrepreneurs, and professionals hands-on training, structured courses, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. Our initiative will also focus on community-building activities like workshops, events, and hackathons, fostering collaboration and innovation. By connecting this Chilean center with other blockchain labs across Latin America, we will establish a regional network for research, development, and real-world applications of blockchain technology.

We will measure our success through participation rates, project results, and community involvement, while tracking the adoption of Cardano and its contributions to the ecosystem. Ultimately, our goal is to empower individuals and drive significant growth in both the local and global blockchain landscape, aligning with Cardano’s mission to promote education and accessibility in this field.

[IMPACT] Please define the positive impact your project will have on the wider Cardano community

Our proposed solution addresses the challenge of limited access to blockchain education and practical resources within the Cardano ecosystem for Spanish-speaking communities. By establishing Blockchain Education Centers in collaboration with Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez (UAI) and Universidad Miguel de Cervantes (UMC), we aim to create a significant positive impact on the Cardano community.

Firstly, we will engage a diverse array of stakeholders, including students, educators from UAI and UMC, entrepreneurs, and professionals, to ensure a smooth onboarding experience into the Cardano ecosystem. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with Cardano nodes, take specialized courses, and conduct research in our well-equipped laboratories, thereby acquiring essential skills for Cardano infrastructure and development.

The partnership with UMC, which emphasizes social sciences and public policy, will enable us to explore the societal implications of blockchain technology, enriching our curriculum and fostering discussions that bridge technology and its impact on society. This interdisciplinary approach will help ensure that participants not only learn technical skills but also understand the broader context of their applications.

In conjunction with our relationship with ALBA, the blockchain laboratory in Argentina, we will enhance the presence of the Cardano ecosystem throughout Latin America and in academic circles, reaching a wider audience while maintaining a scientific and collaborative approach. By leveraging ALBA's educational materials and sharing experiences, we can enrich the learning process for all participants.

This initiative will promote the development of smart contracts, SDKs, protocols, and real-world use cases for Cardano technology, thus increasing opportunities for innovation and adoption. Ultimately, by enhancing the educational experience around Cardano within these institutions, we will contribute to a more robust and diverse developer community, empowering individuals to drive the adoption of blockchain solutions in their local contexts and beyond.

[CAPABILITY & FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability? How do you intend to validate if your approach is feasible?

Our capability to deliver projects with high levels of trust and accountability is well-established through a series of concrete achievements and experiences:

• Participation in Cardano Hackathon: I was involved in the first Cardano Hackathon in Buenos Aires in 2022, where I not only streamed the event but also produced a digital documentary, showcasing my proactive engagement and ability to communicate important industry events effectively.

• Creation of Blockchain Course: In 2023, I developed the first blockchain course at the Master's degree level in Chile, focusing on the benefits of the E-UTxO model. This highlights my commitment to education and expertise in specific blockchain technologies and their practical applications.

• Pioneering Contribution and Content Creation: As a Stake Pool Operator (SPO) of Chile Stake po' [CHIL], I have been part of the Cardano network since epoch 211, dedicating over 4 years to building community and providing support through various networks. Alongside Sebastián from Individuo Digital, I co-host the podcast "Descentralización Total," where we have interviewed numerous SPOs and projects in the Cardano ecosystem. Our efforts have consistently contributed to the growth and knowledge-sharing within the community.

• Hosted CIP 1694 Workshop: I hosted an online workshop on CIP 1694 in Santiago, Chile, further demonstrating my leadership and initiative in facilitating discussions within the blockchain ecosystem.

• Establishing Blockchain Laboratories: In 2024, I initiated negotiations with Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez (UAI) to create ALBA Chile, a blockchain laboratory where students can interact with the Cardano network. I also completed a smart contract development course at UTN Buenos Aires, conducted by the IOG education team. Additionally, I am negotiating with Universidad Miguel de Cervantes to create ALBA Chile 2, a second laboratory to further enhance educational opportunities in blockchain.

• Community Events: I co-organized the constitutional workshop in Buenos Aires and took the lead in organizing the constitutional workshop in Santiago in 2024, further solidifying my role as a community leader in the blockchain space.

[PROJECT MILESTONES] What are the key milestones you need to achieve in order to complete your project successfully?

 Data Collection, Infrastructure Quotation, and Equipment Acquisition

• Description: We will begin by analyzing past courses organized by IOHK, Gimbalabs, Andamio, and the Cardano Foundation to pinpoint barriers and identify areas for improvement. At the same time, we'll gather quotes for the equipment and infrastructure needed to set up blockchain laboratories in Chile, including servers, networks, and other essential resources. A significant focus will be on acquiring high-performance computers and servers to ensure both Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez (UAI) and Universidad Miguel de Cervantes (UMC) are well-equipped to provide advanced blockchain education. After collecting the necessary information, we’ll proceed with purchasing this equipment to create a strong educational environment.

• Duration: 1 month.

• Success Criteria: By the end of this milestone, we aim to have collected data from previous courses, developed a detailed budget for infrastructure and equipment, and successfully procured high-performance computers and servers for both universities.

• Estimated Cost: 48,000 ADA
• Administrative Costs: 2,400 ADA (This reflects a commitment of 20 hours per week to manage this phase. While it may require additional attention, our main goal is to establish the laboratory).
• Total for Milestone 1: 50,400 ADA

Design and Development of the Smart Contracts Course

• Description: With insights gained from Milestone 1, we’ll design a preparatory leveling route that emphasizes key topics in blockchain programming. Additionally, we will develop a comprehensive course on smart contracts within Cardano, incorporating the best elements from previous courses while tailoring them to meet local needs.

• Duration: 2 months.

• Success Criteria: By the end of this milestone, we expect to have created the leveling route and completed the smart contracts course, ready for review.

• Estimated Cost: 27,000 ADA

• Administrative Costs: 4,800 ADA (This covers 2,400 ADA/month for 2 months of project management).

• Total for Milestone 2: 31,800 ADA

 Course Review and Compatibility

• Description: We’ll review the course content with members of the Cardano community and the educational team from IOG. This will be followed by a review with academic authorities to ensure compatibility with the curricula at UAI and UMC.

• Duration: 1 month.

• Success Criteria: Our goal is to receive approval for the course from both the Cardano community and academic authorities, paving the way for implementation at the universities.

• Estimated Cost: 5,000 ADA

• Administrative Costs: 2,400 ADA (Estimated for 20 hours of work in this phase).

• Total for Milestone 3: 7,400 ADA

Community Activation and Educational Events

• Description: We will organize various events, demonstrations, and activities in the blockchain laboratories to engage students, entrepreneurs, and academics, allowing them to explore blockchain technology firsthand. These activities will also facilitate networking and interaction with experts in the Cardano ecosystem.

• Duration: 1 month

• Success Criteria: We aim to execute events with at least 50 participants and gather positive feedback on the activities.

• Estimated Cost: 5,000 ADA

• Administrative Costs: 2,400 ADA (Estimated based on a work schedule of 20 hours per week).

• Total for Milestone 4: 7,400 ADA

Summary of Costs

• Total for Milestone 1: 50,400 ADA
• Total for Milestone 2: 31,800 ADA
• Total for Milestone 3: 7,400 ADA
• Total for Milestone 4: 7,400 ADA

Total Estimated Cost

Total Project Cost: 50,400 + 31,800 + 7,400 + 7,400 = 100,000 ADA.

Administrative Costs Overview

We estimate administrative costs based on a commitment of 20 hours per week throughout the project. While managing this initiative may require more attention than initially planned, our primary focus is the successful establishment of the blockchain laboratories.

Final Milestone

Our project management approach will utilize agile methodologies, focusing on collaboration with Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez (UAI) and Universidad Miguel de Cervantes (UMC). We plan to hold regular meetings with the project team and stakeholders to track progress, address any issues, and ensure that we remain aligned with our objectives.

The project manager will oversee implementation, monitor milestones, and facilitate communication with all involved parties, including UAI, UMC, and the Cardano community. This collaborative approach will keep everyone informed and engaged throughout the project.

Reporting

At the end of the project, we will prepare a report and create a video to showcase the progress and achievements made possible by the funding and the establishment of the laboratory.

Summary of Milestones:

• Total Duration: 5 months
• Projected Costs for Each Milestone: Based on our research and initial budget estimates, with a clear timeline that aligns with the overall project schedule.

[RESOURCES] Who is in the project team and what are their roles?

Rodrigo Oyarzun

Stake Pool Operator (SPO) at Chile Stake Po

LinkedIn Profile

Role:

Rodrigo serves as the project lead, providing essential expertise in managing blockchain infrastructure for the Cardano network. His extensive experience as a Stake Pool Operator enables him to offer global staking services and guide the project strategically.

Responsibilities:

• Set the strategic direction for the project.
• Provide technical guidance throughout the project lifecycle.
• Develop and create educational content tailored for blockchain learners and professionals.
• Facilitate collaborations with educational institutions such as the University Adolfo Ibáñez (UAI) and the Universidad Miguel de Cervantes (UCM) to enhance the project's reach and effectiveness.
• 
  

Background:

Rodrigo has a robust background in blockchain education and innovation. He has taught a foundational course at UAI, focusing on the differences between centralized and decentralized systems, smart contracts, and blockchain technology. He recently completed a course on the development of smart contracts in Cardano at the Universidad Técnica Nacional de Buenos Aires, conducted by the education team at IOG. This experience highlights his dedication to promoting blockchain literacy and fostering innovation within the Latin American ecosystem. Additionally, his role as a SPO reflects his commitment to enhancing community engagement within the Cardano network.

[BUDGET & COSTS] Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

Data sheet Milestones

Milestone 1: Data Collection, Infrastructure Quotation, and Equipment Acquisition

Description: We will conduct a thorough analysis of previous courses organized by IOHK, Gimbalabs, Andamio, and the Cardano Foundation to identify barriers and opportunities for improvement. In parallel, we will gather quotations for the necessary equipment and infrastructure to establish blockchain laboratories in Chile at two universities: Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez (UAI) and Universidad Miguel de Cervantes (UMC). This includes servers, networking equipment, and over 40 computers. The equipment acquisition will be the most significant cost in this stage, as it directly impacts both universities' ability to facilitate a wide spectrum of blockchain educational needs.

Duration: 2 months.

Success Criteria:

• Completion of data collection from previous courses.
• A detailed budget for acquiring infrastructure and equipment.
• Successful purchase of computers, servers, and networking infrastructure for two universities.

Estimated Cost: 50,400 ADA.

Resources Needed:

• Hardware: Purchase of servers, networking equipment, and 40+ computers to set up blockchain labs in both UAI and UMC.
• Consultation Services: External support to ensure the selection of the best vendors for infrastructure and equipment procurement.

Milestone 2: Design and Development of the Smart Contracts Course

Description: Following the completion of the infrastructure setup in Milestone 1, we will develop a preparatory leveling route that addresses key areas in blockchain programming. This route ensures that students with diverse backgrounds can build the foundational knowledge needed to work with smart contracts. Then, we will design a full smart contracts course for Cardano, drawing on lessons from previous courses and adapting the material to the local context and educational needs of UAI and UMC.

Duration: 1 month (following the completion of infrastructure setup in Milestone 1).

Success Criteria:

• Creation of a preparatory leveling route tailored to student needs.
• Development of a comprehensive smart contracts course that integrates content from previous Cardano initiatives and is adapted to local educational needs.

Estimated Cost: 31,800 ADA.

Resources Needed:

• Software Licenses: Educational software and blockchain tools required for the course.
• Content Development Tools: Platforms and software necessary for creating, organizing, and distributing course materials.
• Course Development Team: A team of experts to ensure high-quality content creation, tailored to the academic standards of UAI and UMC.

Milestone 3: Course Review and Compatibility

Description: The developed course will be reviewed by the Cardano community and the educational teams at IOG and the participating universities. The goal is to ensure that the course is compatible with university curricula and meets the needs of local students, enabling smooth integration into their academic programs.

Duration: 1 month.

Success Criteria:

• Approval of the course by key stakeholders (Cardano community and IOG).
• Review and compatibility confirmation by academic authorities at UAI and UMC.

Estimated Cost: 7,400 ADA.

Resources Needed:

• Consultation Services: Academic advisors and blockchain experts will review the course for alignment with curricula and industry standards.

Milestone 4: Community Activation and Educational Events

Description: Once the infrastructure and educational materials are in place, we will organize events, workshops, and demonstrations within the newly established blockchain laboratories. These events will engage students, entrepreneurs, and academics, providing hands-on experience with blockchain technology and facilitating interaction with experts from the Cardano ecosystem.

Duration: 1 month.

Success Criteria:

• At least two events successfully executed with 50+ participants.
• Positive feedback collected from participants on the quality and relevance of the activities.

Estimated Cost: 7,400 ADA.

Resources Needed:

• Event Management Services: To organize and coordinate educational events and workshops.
• Marketing Materials: To promote the events within the academic and entrepreneurial communities.

Total Budget Overview

• Total Cost for Milestone 1: 50,400 ADA
• Total Cost for Milestone 2: 31,800 ADA
• Total Cost for Milestone 3: 7,400 ADA
• Total Cost for Milestone 4: 7,400 ADA
• 
  

Grand Total: 100,000 ADA

Administrative Costs Overview

We estimate administrative costs based on a commitment of 20 hours per week throughout the project. While managing this initiative may require more attention than initially planned, our primary focus is the successful establishment of the blockchain laboratories. These costs are integral to ensuring smooth project execution and stakeholder communication.

Budget Details

Third-Party Products or Services:

• Equipment Vendors: For setting up blockchain laboratories, including hardware, networking infrastructure, and computers.
• Software Licenses: Required for the development and delivery of the smart contracts course.
• Professional Services: Including external consultants for legal, financial, and technical auditing.
• Industry Experts: For guest lectures and panel discussions to enhance the educational experience.
• Event Management Services: For organizing workshops and conferences to promote community engagement.

[VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

Cost-Effectiveness: Our budget accurately reflects the costs associated with establishing blockchain laboratories, which includes purchasing computers and servers for two universities. While this represents a significant investment, it will have a broad impact across academic institutions, accommodating students with diverse backgrounds and needs. This approach allows a wider spectrum of participants to engage with blockchain technology, fostering inclusivity and enhancing the overall educational experience.

Proportional to Value: The costs are aligned with the significant outcomes our project aims to achieve for the Cardano ecosystem. By partnering with UAI and UCM, we plan to create a leading blockchain education hub that equips participants with essential skills and encourages community engagement. The investment will generate value through enhanced knowledge and practical applications.

Consideration of Market Rates: We have assessed market rates for services such as educational program development and event organization. This analysis has led to a budget that balances cost-efficiency with quality, ensuring every ADA spent is impactful and produces tangible results.

Leveraging Partnerships: Collaborating with UAI and UCM is key to optimizing costs. These partnerships provide access to resources and expertise at favorable rates, allowing us to create high-quality blockchain laboratories. This approach minimizes expenses and supports long-term sustainability, enhancing the overall value for the Cardano ecosystem.

By focusing on these aspects and leveraging our partnerships, we believe our proposed budget will deliver significant value for the Cardano ecosystem. Our goal is to achieve transformative outcomes, empower individuals and organizations, and promote widespread adoption of blockchain technology within the Cardano community, all while using resources wisely and ensuring sustainability.