By Monique Hepburn, Staff ReporterWESTERN BUREAU:
THE CHAMBERS Pen Basic School in Hanover is currently being renovated by the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) under the Chambers Pen Basic School Rehabilitation and Equipping Project at a cost of $2.7 million.
Ms. Faren Evans, principal of the school, told The Gleaner on Tuesday that the renovations are a welcome opportunity to create an environment that is conducive to learning as the existing structure was in a poor state as it had damages dating back to Hurricane Gilbert.
"The original structure was not sealed properly and the electrical wiring was faulty," she said. "I think the repairs will allow for a child-centred learning environment."
ITS DESIRED PURPOSE
The project, which is slated to run for nine weeks, began in the first week of March and was proposed by the Unique Vision Youth Club in Chambers Pen. Speaking at the sponsors signing ceremony at the Harvey River United Church on Tuesday, Mr. Gerry Murray, project officer at JSIF, told a gathering of students, teachers and well-wishers that his organisation, by assisting the community of Chambers Pen, was fulfilling its desired purpose, that of partnering with communities to assist in their development.
Mr. Murray said, "The contract we are signing today represents our pledge to work with two community-based organisations, the Unique Vision Club and the Chambers Pen Basic School Parent Teachers' Association."
According to Mr. Murray, the project also involves the provision of equipment, including desks for teachers and students, wall-mounted chalkboards and classroom cupboards.
The basic school, which serves the communities of Chambers Pen, Harvey's River, and Askenish, has 40 students enrolled. Upon the completion of the renovations, Ms. Evans observes that another 10 students can be accommodated with ease.
