Thailand, Ban Tha Ta Fang

CONTEXT

The school is located near the mountainous Mae Hong Son province in northern Thailand at the Myanmar border. The school and its surrounding communities are underprivileged in many areas: surrounded by the forest and mountain, the school is at one of the least accessible areas in Thailand, where commuting is extremely difficult and time-consuming. In order to reach the school from the nearest district centre, road traveling by motor bike or car takes 2-3 hours. However, during the rainy season, parts of the road can be flooded so travelers have to continue by boat, which takes an additional hour. There is no telephone signal or electricity at the school. All households in the village are poor with little income as they rely on agriculture, which is only effective in the rainy season. The lack of career opportunities and a source of income have led to many villagers migrating to towns and cities for jobs, resulting in family separation.

Before construction

After construction

Project Type

Construction of dormitory, toilets and first-aid room

Side project: Water tanks

Construction Period:
December 2021 – April 2022

Side project: 1 month

Budget

30.000 €

Side Project Budget

5.000 €

Children

122

Partner

Mechai Foundation

Donor

Private

PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION

Ban Tha Ta Fang School urgently needs the construction of dormitories, toilets, first aid room, and the installation of solar panels for electricity. The school is extremely remote. Most students used to walk at least 14-25 kilometers everyday between the school and their homes. The original dormitory for students has been severely damaged by a storm and can no longer be used. Therefore, the construction of a dormitory is urgently needed, alongside the toilets and first-aid room, as it is safer and more convenient for students to board at the school during the week and go home for the weekend.

SIDE PROJECT: WATER TANKS

Villagers in Bhan Tha Ta Fang and the school share the same water source from the upstream forest in the high mountain for consumption. Each day, the school needs a lot of water for consumption. Sometimes, there is a water shortage problem, especially when damaged plumbing is waiting to be repaired. Thus, this side project aimed to purchase a 2,000-liter water tank to store water for students and staff.

This project has been most beneficial to students and staff at the school. The school has an emergency water source to enable a smooth running of students and staff activities.