The current state of education in Guatemala is significantly underfunded. Many classrooms nationwide, especially in rural Guatemala, do not meet minimum standards for classroom space, teaching materials, classroom equipment and furniture, and water/sanitation. In rural areas in particular, no state support means school infrastructure is lacking –few (or sometimes no) teachers are available. Indigenous people make up about 42% of the population in Guatemala and mostly reside in poor rural areas with little access to quality education. Indigenous students are highly disadvantaged with an average of only 2,5 years of schooling, making building schools in rural villages absolutely essential.
Guatemala, El Rosario
CONTEXT
During construction
After construction
Project Type
Construction of a new school building with 3 classrooms, establishment of a permaculture garden
Construction Period:
November 2020 – April 2022
Budget
30.000 €
Children
261
Partner
Esperanza e.V.
Donor
Private Donor
PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION
The Rosary School is a school with all the limitations that schools in rural Guatemala have, little access to water, deteriorated and poorly maintained facilities, and a constantly growing student population. Like most rural communities in Guatemala, the population has increased and the school currently has 261 children, 1 director and 9 people in the teaching area. The school is affected by the increase in population, and the current facilities are insufficient. Due to the lack of space they are forced to occupy spaces designated for other uses such as classrooms, so the expansion of the school is of utmost importance.
To create a better learning environment, the old classrooms are being renovated. In addition, a new school building with three classrooms will be built. And another great advantage comes along with the El Rosario project: A permaculture garden will be established to teach the children about sustainable agriculture.