In collaboration with NGO Outreach International and local Haitian partner Organisation for the Social Development of the Masses (ODSM), Article 25 are currently undertaking vital structural surveys, site safety assessments and providing temporary school shelters as part of a major school reconstruction programme in Haiti.

Throughout the earthquake affected areas poor standards of construction and deficient materials were the root cause of tremendous structural failures and, ultimately, an overwhelming loss of life.  Reconstruction in Haiti must therefore go beyond restoring what was lost and introduce building methods for sound, earthquake and hurricane resistant construction. Working with engineers from Buro Happold, the Article 25 team will develop  culturally appropriate building systems drawing upon  previous experience in post-earthquake reconstruction.

The immediate challenges to begin the reconstruction process involve demolition, site clearing and temporary school mobilisation on all 30 sites. Over a three year programme, the Article 25 team on the ground will rebuild or improve schools, using local involvement to build the community’s internal capacity.

location:

Earthquake affected areas, Haiti.

The earthquake that shook Haiti in January 2010 originated near the town of Léogâne, and devastated much of the country’s capital Port-au-Prince and its surrounding areas. The schools that will be reconstructed are located throughout the affected areas, including Pétionville, Carrefour, Cité-Soleil, Léogâne, Croix-des-Bouquets and Jacmel. These sites range from cities and suburbs to rural towns. Inaccesibility and security concerns are factors affecting half of the projects, which will pose challenges in design and construction management.

partners:

Article 25 are working with Outreach International and ODSM. Outreach International, a US registered charity and humanitarian organisation, currently works in impoverished countries around the world assisting hundreds of thousands of people each year in four key areas: children, families, communities and the environment. Outreach International have supported a network of 90 schools in Haiti alongside ODSM for the past 30 years. Buro Happold, the UK-based consulting engineers, are providing structural expertise to the Article 25 team.

timeline:

3 year programme.  7 school rehabilitation projects are planned to be completed in 2011.  Article 25 team is stationed on site.

problem addressed:

The January 12, 2010 earthquake damaged or destroyed 30 schools in Outreach International and ODSM’s programme. Lack of public awareness regarding earthquakes and the lack of training for construction trade workers and deficient materials are issues that will be addressed in the reconstruction efforts. Reconstruction work also represents an opportunity to apply climate responsive design and to improve natural ventilation and lighting, ultimately creating better learning environments.