THE MACHAKOS CATHOLIC TECHNICAL TRAINING INSTITUTE WAS THE FOCUS OF CANADIAN HEARTS AND HANDS’ 2005-2006 MISSION. TO SEE THE PROBLEMS THAT WERE AFFECTING THE CENTRE. THE FOLLOWING ARE SOME OF THE ACTIVITIES THAT THE MISSIONARIES AND THE STUDENTS OF THE CENTRE WORKED ON.
STRUCTURAL RENOVATIONS
Installation of new furniture and fixtures in the kitchen and dormitories. A new sewage system was installed.
Rusted tin roofs were replaced.
An eight room guest house was refurbished. An extension to the staff house and a reception room was added.
The dining hall was painted and fitted with new window frames.
Security was increased in the school with the installation of a barbed wire fence, hiring of night watchmen, and the purchase of guard dogs. Extra lighting was also added to the area.
Designated areas were assigned for proper garbage disposal.
CLASSROOMS AND WORKSHOPS
A storage area was renovated and supplied appropriately for the welding course. This welding shop is used not only for teaching students but also for repairs around the school and to make objects for sale to support the centre.
The workshop was also renovated. Equipment and supplies (chairs, benches, vises, etc.) were added.
More than 40 sewing machines were repaired and fixed to train students in tailoring.
Students were given access to newspapers and periodicals to keep them informed.
LAND
In the beginning the land proved poor and underdeveloped. Now, the property has successfully cultivated the land to provide for the centre’s needs.
An irrigation system was introduced with new pipes and water sprinklers to efficiently use water.
Not only are there plants, but livestock as well. Goats and sheep were bought for the centre, making it a working farm.
More the two hundred trees were planted around the school.
Plants from the garden were cultivated and have become a source of income for the centre.
WATER
Clean water has, by far, been the biggest improvement for the centre. Without water, the community cannot function. Digging the bore-hole ensured that the centre would no longer be dependent on rain for their source.
The water is fed through a system of 450 feet of underground pipes and is then stored in three large water tanks that supply the centre.
The centre has also provided water for the entire community, free of charge. There are pipes that lead outside the centre to a station where the community gathers in the morning and in the evening to get water. More than 450 families in the community now have access to free, clean water.
LIFE
The goal of the institute is not simply the physical well-being but rather the complete development of the person in all aspects. Below are some ways that life in the centre has improved for the students.
Dedicated athletics areas, like volleyball and soccer fields, were developed for students. Equipment was also purchased for their use.
Areas around the school were designated as walk ways and gardens for quiet reflection.
A sound system was installed for group gatherings and entertainment. Once a week, students were treated to a movie night.
Monthly social gatherings for the entire school.
Establishing a prayer area in the middle of the school grounds, with a crucifix and beautiful rocks and flowers.
A chapel was set up in the school to enrich the spiritual life of the community. Daily Mass is also celebrated in the school for the students and teachers.
Building pride and respect for the local culture by encouraging the traditions of the area, especially through dance.
