RC Dominica: Post TS Erika Education Projects

 

 

The community of Petite Savanne sustained the worst devastation by the ravages of TS Erika. The entire population of over 700 persons was relocated as the raging floodwaters destroyed their homes and property.  The Rotary Club of Dominica partnered with the Sandals Foundation and the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development to provide hope to the Petite Savanne community.

The Sandals Foundation outfitted a brand new multi-purpose room with nine (9) Dell computers, a printer, projector and screen, floor rugs, over 1,500 new books and a variety of educational supplies.  Additionally, funds were allocated for extensive renovation works in the rooms, painting, electrical works, computer desks, tables, chairs, bookshelves and a wall mural which depicts village scenery.  The total project cost US$35,000.  The Sandals Foundation was supported by several partners including Scholastic Book Fairs, Tropicars/Africair, Dell and School Specialty.

 

Director of Programs, Heidi Clarke, noted that change especially when it comes suddenly in the form of a natural disaster can be very traumatic for children in particular. Therefore it was her hope that the project would bring comfort to the children, in knowing that there are many people out there who care and would always give a helping hand in time of crisis.

Chief Education Officer, Mrs. Melina Fontaine stated that the multi-purpose room would enhance the teaching and learning process, as success can never be left to chance. 

 

President of the Rotary Club of Dominica hailed the project a shining example of collaboration between the government and civil society.  She expressed the sincere gratitude of the Club, for this invaluable opportunity to serve. 

 

The multi-purpose room was opened on March 9. 2013.

 

                                                                                                      

 

                                                                    

 

 

The community of Coulibistrie was severely affected by the floodwaters of the Coulibistrie River which destroyed building, infrastructure and vehicles and caused the death of one person.  The Rotary Club of Dominica partnered with the Rotary Club of Ottawa South and Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development to develop and implement the Coulibistrie Primary School Library Project.  The project was funded by a district grant of US$14,000, secured by the Rotary Club of Ottawa South. 

The Coulibistrie School is still undergoing repairs by the Government of Dominica.  However the funds have been expended to purchase the following items: fifteen (15) tablets, reference books and teaching materials and library books.

 

In addition, the project funded four (4) month of remedial classes for students from April to July.  The supplies will be officially handed over to the school in September 2016.