How should school buildings and school heating systems be properly maintained? How should schools manage crisis situations? These are just some of the topics that were discussed at the training for maintenance of school buildings, organized in late March 2019 within the USAID Youth Ethnic Integration Project.
The training was attended by about 50 representatives from schools that had already been renovated within the project. Through interactive presentations, practical team work and group discussions, the participants were introduced to the usual problems that occur during the maintenance of school buildings, but also to the ways to overcome them.
Classrooms and other premises in the schools should be accessible and pleasant for the stay of the students and teachers, as well as for the implementation of the teaching process. That is why, after renovation, schools need to be maintained professionally and timely. The effective maintenance of school buildings ensures safe and healthy physical environment in the school, normal functioning of the teaching process, extended service life of the school buildings and school equipment, as well as increased energy efficiency.
Infographic for standards and procedures for hygiene maintenance in schools
With the support of the United States European Command (EUCOM) and the municipalities, so far, 12 schools have been renovated throughout the country within the USAID Youth Ethnic Integration Project. More than 9000 students and teachers benefit from the renovation – they have better learning and working conditions.
Before and after the renovation of PS “Aco Sopov” in the Municipality of Butel
By the end of the project, a total of over 60 schools will be renovated, based on the needs for renovation, as well as the achievements of the schools in the fields of interethnic integration and civic skills and behaviors of students.
This project is, in fact, based on the successful USAID Youth Ethnic Integration Project (2011-2017) within which a Guidelines Manual for Maintenance of School Buildings was prepared. The guide gives an overview of the most common problems usually faced by schools and technical personnel during the maintenance, practical ways for their solution, recommendations for preventive maintenance, occupational safety measures and tools required for maintenance of schools.
This activity is part of the Youth Ethnic Integration Project, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
This article is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of MCEC and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.
