Background
The Scenario
The 2008 EWB Challenge focuses on a range of projects that will contribute towards the sustainable development of rural communities in Kandal Province, Cambodia. The following information will assist the design teams to conceptualise the issues involved.
EWB working in Cambodia
In the last decade, Cambodia has achieved national reconciliation, peace and stability following the Khmer Rouge era and subsequent years of conflict. A rising GDP, improved access to primary education, declining child mortality rates and accession entry into the World Trade Organisation have all contributed to Cambodias strategy to meet its Millennium Development Goals. Despite the significant progress, Cambodia is still classified by the United Nations as a Least Developed Country (i.e. a country that scores low on both the Human Development Index and on indicators of socioeconomic development). EWB began working in Cambodia in 2003 and has since sent 16 volunteers on various programs with a focus on water and sanitation, disability access, IT, manufacturing and infrastructure working alongside a number of local partners. One of these partners is Resource Development International - Cambodia (RDIC).
Resource Development International Cambodia
Resource Development International - Cambodia (RDIC) is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to serving the people of Cambodia by developing and implementing unique resources and appropriate technologies to empower communities towards sustainable change. RDIC has developed expertise in many areas including heath, education, engineering, scientific research and agriculture. During 2006, two EWB volunteers worked with RDIC to document their ceramic water filter manufacturing process.
Water and Sanitation Projects
An estimated 69% of the population in Cambodia do not have access to safe drinking water and 72% do not have access to adequate sanitation (WHO, 2004). RDIC have implemented various projects designed to provide clean water to rural villages such as water purification systems, rain water harvesting systems, rope pump installations and arsenic testing. The construction of latrines and hand washing stations at rural schools resulted in improvements in the quality of life, overall health and education retention of Cambodian school children. Coupled with education, RDIC has made a sustainable difference in the overall health of Cambodia.
Laboratory Projects
RDIC have conducted water quality tests for surface and well water in Cambodia since 1998. In 2003, the laboratory expanded to accommodate an ever growing need to 5 monitor water quality. At present the RDIC laboratory is the number one arsenic tester in Cambodia with over 10,500 wells tested. In addition to vital work with arsenic testing, the RDIC labs also conduct various microbiological tests and are expanding its work to include testing for viruses.
Education Projects
RDIC has developed interactive curriculum that uses live presentations in the classroom to teach various health related lessons. Highly effective puppet shows, visual demonstrations, and hands on activities are used in each program. RDI staff members use home visitations to teach rural villagers basic health.
Audio/Video Production
RDIC also operates a studio that integrates Cambodians love for karaoke and entertainment with education. Some projects include socially uplifting original karaoke songs, public service announcements, radio shows, children's educational television, movie dubbing, song composition and story reproduction and translation. A small staff on a limited budget is making strides with culturally appropriate entertainment and education that stems from the unique vision of RDIC.
Click here to view EWB Challenge 2008 projects. EWB Challenge documents can be downloaded on the resource page.
