Earthquake Relief Team in Pakistan oversees rebuilding of school

From its base in Mansehra, the Salvation Army International Emergency Services team in Pakistan continues to play a significant part in the move towards recovery for the many thousands of people affected by last October's earthquake. Progress has been made and partnership projects have been identified in the vicinity of Balakot, one of the worst-hit areas.

One such project that has already commenced is the building of a school to replace an emergency tented school high above Balakot in the village of Mang.

The natural beauty of the school's location masks the difficult conditions the population has learned to expect and cope with. Even in recent days a ferocious storm tore at the mountain side and many children who attend the tented school lost their meagre possessions, including the brand new school uniforms that had been issued to each child by our partners. The planned five double classrooms and vocational centre – using a semi-permanent building pattern to safeguard against future earthquakes – will serve the double purpose of being a place of sanctuary against severe weather conditions.

Teachers are being recruited locally, including trainees – some as young as 15. These trainee teachers are given on-the-job training as they look after the youngest of the children. The trainees are also benefiting from intensive short-term courses in nearby Abbottabad. All this has the added bonus that the local economy is being boosted because more people are receiving a regular income.

No children are turned away as long as their parents or guardians show an interest by bringing them to school. A parents committee has been established.

The progress at the site is being monitored by an experienced civil engineer and the International Emergency Services team is making regular trips to inspect the work.

Team leader Brian Oxley (UK) and Damaris Frick (Germany) recently handed over to new team leader Major Ray Brown (UK), short-term placement Gordon Lewis (International Headquarters) and Major Wendy Goodman (UK).