Shakira invests millions in Cartagena school via foundation

Through her Pies Descalzos Foundation, Colombian artist Shakira invested approximately $3.68 million toward the construction of the Lomas del Peyé Educational Institution in Cartagena. The total project cost reached nearly $8 million, with the singer providing roughly 46% of the funding while the remainder was covered by public and private partners.

Located in the La María neighborhood on a 7,780-square-meter site, the facility features 55 functional spaces, including specialized classrooms, a library, a dining hall, sports facilities, and a community center. The institution is designed to accommodate up to 1,700 students, offering education from early childhood through secondary school.

Since its inauguration in February 2014, the project has had a notable local impact. During construction, it generated between 350 and 400 direct jobs, with 60% of the workforce being residents of nearby neighborhoods. The school continues to serve more than 1,000 children annually.