By Dr David Steiner | HANDS AROUND THE WORLD Project Co-ordinator
As we made our farewells in late February there were a number of issues needing attention, as highlighted in the last report.
Refurbishing the 2 staff houses is now almost completed. This was the top priority and is also a great psychological boost! The leaking roof and damp walls have been sorted out and Persis the manager now has a bright, newly decorated kitchen (below)
Having originally been disappointed by one prospective donor, we are delighted to have just received confirmation that another will provide the bulk of the funds to build the workshop. When this workshop is built, the idea is to bring in more new students. Plans are well underway to get this work started soon, and we are continuing to seek funds to complete the task this year, as well as building another classroom and purchasing a new and larger incubator.
A part-container of items needed by the children, young people (and the centre itself) which we sent to Zambia has just arrived. Persis writes: "We were really glad to receive clothing for the children, knitting and sewing items from the container this week. The children will be very happy to receive these gifts. Thank you all so much."
Beekeeping training in partnership with the government forestry department is ongoing and funds raised in a recent Global Giving appeal have enabled the purchase of materials for making 10 beehives and bee suits for some of the beekeeping students, as well a honey press for Kaliyangile. This will make a huge difference to their ability to translate theory into practice and will hopefully lead to much-enhanced honey production, as well as better marketing and enhances revenues in future.
We have been able to purchase a printer / photocopier both for direct use with students and admin, but also as a chargeable community resource. This should be installed in the next couple of weeks.
I believe the Kaliyangile project has a bright future under Persis' leadership. It is great to be able to support and encourage her in this way, and we hope to continue doing so, as well as sending out short-term volunteers.
Thank you for your help and please get in touch if you (or a friend) would like details of exciting short-term volunteering opportunities. This would be a wonderful experience for someone with market gardening, beekeeping, computer or tailoring skills and interests, or maybe a couple keen to volunteer together.
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