Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Learning

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.
- Nelson Mandela


Gabonese High School
  

 Something extraordinary happened in Gabon at the end of the 2011 school year. It was reported that up to 50% more students had passed their A-levels for the year, allowing more students than ever before to qualify for enrollment in university. It became quickly apparent that the existing facilities were woefully inadequate to handle the increased student load. Enter ANGT.

At the request of the President, ANGT has undertaken the development and renovation of capital works for the entire education system of Gabon. This includes elementary, middle, and high schools, universities, technical and trade schools. The goal of the program? To provide access to free public education for up to 60,000 more students.
Overcrowded Classroom

So far the work has proven more complex than anyone had imagined. The logistical challenges of mobilizing labor, materials, and equipment to numerous sites spread throughout the entire country, with one working port, and with an extremely tight delivery schedule has pushed skills to the limit. The work ranges from primary school classroom renovations to the complete design and construction of new universities, and the media attention is scrupulous.

New School Construction - Traditional Style

In light of all the challenges to such an ambitious program, it is heartening to see the progress made already. The future return on investment of this program is somewhat intangible, but the benefit to the country of a vastly improved education system will positively impact the lives of everyone.

New School Construction - Modern with Air Conditioning

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