11/05/2011, 19:36

Fall here means spring in Mfuwe. So, as New York was being socked with snow, the temp in Mfuwe hit 100 degrees. It's been an unusually hot one and the students and teachers are happy to have shelter in the ventilated classrooms and shaded outdoor space. The two SCALEAfrica designed teacher houses are progressing very well, with the roof framing and sheeting just completed. While there is still much to do, they have taken shape. Some next steps include the installation of the solar electrical system, the bamboo screens to shade the windows, and plastering and painting the interior and exterior walls. 

And from Mfuwe directly, we just received a great letter from Chiutika's head teacher, Victoria Kanyinji, letting us know that Chiutika has been allocated two new teachers to meet the growing demand for attending the school. As the facilities and number of teachers have improved remarkably over the last two years, new students are arriving every trimester in hopes of getting a seat.  With 1600 students and now fifteen teachers, they still are in need of more teachers, but this is good news and of huge benefit to everyone.

Finally, we're pleased to announce that Smith College will be hosting an alumnae travel program to Zambia in November 2012. The trip will include four days in Mfuwe, where alumnae will visit SCALEAfrica schools and, hopefully, put a little elbow grease in by assisting with construction on our upcoming primary school project. We look forward to introducing them to the students and community, we know they'll have an amazing experience!

Keep checking back for more progress pics on the teacher housing and info on the launch of our next project!