Energy-Technology and Training Project

Delegates traveled to Leogone, Haiti in 2006 and met with faculty at the University of Fondwa 2004 (UNIF) to assess their energy needs and the potential of solar and wind energy. At present, the school buildings have almost no electricity and space is cramped and inadequate. There is also need for renewable energy source for a recently implemented water project that supplies the school and surrounding community with clean water.

Representatives traveled UNIF in June 2007 to begin the assessment and planning phase of work on this project. Time is now drawing near for the installation of the solar and technology systems.

In Spring 2008, representatives will travel to UNIF to install the solar panels built by students at Monroe County Community College. They will also install information technology systems and train UNIF students and staff on use, maintenance and security.

This work is made possible through the collaboration and financial support of many organizations. With a grant from the Sisters of St. Joseph, Nazareth, Mich., and working in partnership with Partners in Progress, Association of Peasants of Fondwa, and Monroe County Community College Information Systems and Construction Management Technology departments, this project will help to advance UNIF's mission by meeting its need for alternative energy and adequate technology needs.

The project objectives include:

• hands-on training in solar and wind energy and technology systems design
• upgrade the infrastructure of classroom and administration building
• install solar and wind energy system to meet energy needs
• information technology system to satisfy current demand and allow for future expansion through long-distance learning

In June 2006, delegates from River Raisin Institute and Partners in Progress traveled to Leogone, Haiti, to meet with the Association of Peasants of Fondwa (APF) and the University of Fondwa 2004 (UNIF) to exchange knowledge and strategies for addressing building and energy needs of UNIF.

UNIF is dedicated to reversing the destructive cycle of economic impoverishment, rampant health crisis, and environmental devastation caused by centuries of violence and oppression. Years of unsustainable plantation agriculture and the forced displacement of peasants from fertile plains to mountainous slopes has resulted in severe deforestation, soil erosion and water contamination. Most Haitian people lack access to clean water and fresh produce. Many children are malnourished and suffer from preventable and treatable diseases.

The small university is training a new generation of people who participate with determination and conviction in the sustainable and integrated development of their country and who do not put their own personal interest first.

UNIF has critical infrastructure needs that must be met in order to increase student enrollment and make the school economically viable. There is also need for renewable energy source for a recently implemented water project that supplies the school and surrounding community with clean water.

The specific objectives accomplished on this trip include:

• Assessment of energy needs and potential for implementation of Solar and wind energy for UNIF buildings
• Mini visioning session with UNIF faculty to help identify and prioritize needs related to sustainability of the University
• Presentation on renewable energy and compressed earth block to APF members and students and faculty of UNIF
• Meeting with Fondwa Health clinic staff and community members to exchange information on HIV/AIDS prevention and direct care services and discuss start-up of HIV prevention program for youth and women in Fondwa