Education

Raising Literacy Rates

One of our primary objectives is to raise the literacy rate in the region. We are committed to ensuring that each person attains at least a primary education level, laying a strong foundation for continued learning and growth.

Teaching Healthcare and Life Skills

Beyond traditional academic subjects, we also place a strong emphasis on teaching basic healthcare practices, with a focus on preventative maintenance and proper nutrition. Additionally, we provide training opportunities in technical health skills, such as midwifery, to empower members of the community.

Sustainable Knowledge Transfer

A crucial aspect of our education projects is ensuring the long-term sustainability of the systems and knowledge we impart. We work diligently to leave behind knowledgeable individuals who can maintain and elaborate on the initiatives we have instituted, such as community gardens and water infrastructure.

Continued Service Provision

Our overarching goal is to enable the people of Timo and the surrounding areas to continue providing essential services and support to their community even after HHI volunteers have departed. By equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills, we aim to foster self-reliance and empower the local population to drive their own development.

Challenges to Education in Timo

On October 10th, 2010, the first educational school, Institution Mixte de la Perfection de Viciere, was established in Timo to meet local educational needs. The community school currently includes 227 attending students and 12 teachers. The structure is made of corrugated metal with no windows, poor ventilation, and a dirt floor, with tarps used to separate classroom areas. Recognizing these challenges, community leaders asked HHI to facilitate the construction of permanent and adequate structures.

Building the New School

In collaboration with Arup, an international design firm, plans were made for a modern, hurricane-resistant school building. In 2023 the Haitian engineering firm GH Concepts designed a school that is earthquake resistant with capacity for 250 children ages 3-16. Currently 62 students are enrolled. The new Georgette Beauvais Community School will serve Timo and surrounding communities of Platon, Corail, K-matin, and La Libète.

• 1 administration office
• Dry latrines with separate bathrooms for girls, boys and employees
• A cafeteria/dining room and kitchen
• Outdoor play areas with culturally appropriate equipment
• Facilities for physical education, agricultural education, and community activities
• Additional spaces for storage and extracurricular activities