Background:

The Tiyende Pamodzi CBO runs 4 preschool groups for almost 200 children aged 2 to 7. Lessons are taking place under a tree or at insufficient temporary structures. The CBO is lacking resources to establish appropriate school buildings.

Aims of the program:

• Supporting the development of one Model Childcare/Community Center, to be built along sustainable and permaculture principles
• Supporting the constructing of three simple school building for the other three preschool groups

Achievements:

• Selection of a location for the Model Childcare/Community Center; land donated by Group Village Headman Kantimbanya (October 2007)
• The collection and organization of on-site materials in preparation for the building (stones, sand and wood) (January 2008 to date)
• An initial assessment of the place and instruction given on permaculture concepts by The Glasshouse
• Several research visits investigating alternative building methods made by the CBO members and boNGO Program Director (June - August 2008)

Goals for 2009/2010:

• Construction of the Model Childcare/Community Center. How: Working in co-operation with the CBO and relevant partners (The Glasshouse, Government, other NGOs and similar projects), planning details of the construction; construction made by the local builders, using locally available materials, additional materials provided through external funding.
• Developing this Center into an inspirational Model, promoting alternative and local building methods and resources. How: Working along the ethics and principles of Permaculture; promoting the Center among and through boNGO´s partners and networks, website and media.
• Supporting the building of three simple school shelters for the other preschool groups. How: Co-ordinated and built by local villagers; using local materials; providing additional materials through external funding.