Projects for Underserved Communities
Projects for Underserved Communities is an innovative new course at The University of Texas at Austin that applies the talents of engineers to address real-world community needs. The goal of the course is to use the passion that we have for service and engineering to encourage leadership, teamwork, and sustainable development.
Phase I: Project Assesment
During the Fall semester, we evaluated nine prospective projects identified by communities in Ghana, Panama and Peru for feasibility, risk, impact, and sustainability.
Phase II: Concept Selection and Design
During the Spring semester, we will focus on concept selection, design and fundraising. We also will lead reconnaissance trips to Ghana and Peru.
Implementation: Summer Projects
With the help of community members, our professors, and professional volunteers, we will travel during Summer 2010 to develop and implement water systems for:
- 685 students at a school in the Village of Patriensa, Ghana.
- 500 students at Institucion Educativa Carlos Noriega Jimenez in Santa Cruz, Peru.
Join our efforts!
Our biggest challenge to completing these projects is the cost of materials and travel. Your valuable contributions would go a very long way toward ensuring that these developments become a reality! Learn how to contribute funding, mileage, time, and technical expertise.
"Every $1 invested in water sanitation can yield up to $34 in developing countries."
Source: WHO/UNICEF