For the latest news on the Mali Project, please go to the NomadHope website @ http://www.nomadhope.org.

SSAKANE, MALI

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There are 6 community-run schools located in the far northern region of Mali, just southwest of Tombouctou (Timbuktu) that have had success in enrolling both boys and girls, staffing teachers, and building permanent school structures. The schools have grown in terms of attendance every year since they were established in 2005. However, these schools have no electricity and issues with their existing wells. The schools have asked for assistance in providing solar power and also to improve upon their current water/sanitation systems. Providing electricity will improve academic scores and provide opportunities for after chore and dinner studying and adult education for the community. By solving these water and power issues, communities can sustain schools and literacy programs for their children and allow schools to increase their student enrollment capacity.

The initial project scope of work will have EWB-LA addressing the needs of one of these six community schools, with the first school chosen based on an assessment of each schools’ respective needs. EWB-LA has teamed up with NomadHope, a U.S. based NGO, Rotary International, and professionals from EWB-Washington D.C. and EWB-New York to ensure project success in its partnership with the pilot school and surrounding community.

EWB-LA conducted a site assessment trip in November 2008 to visit each of the six schools and conduct an in-depth assessment on the needs. Volunteers are needed in many areas including local water treatment and distribution methods, sanitation, solar power system design, and education.

How to get involved: Contact project lead Keely McGeehan at Keely@NomadHope.org

How to donate to this project: Mali School Project

How to learn more: NomadHope