L'École Lakay, a trade school run by the Salesians of Don Bosco, which had closed due to extensive damage suffered during the earthquake of January 2010, will have a second chance to be rebuilt, thanks to the assistance provided by the Canadian Institute of Steel Construction (CISC) and Atlas Tube, Lainco, Fast + Epp, Canam, ArcelorMittal et Cast Connex...

The CISC with its partnerships between the Canadian Construction Association (CCA), the Association de la construction du Quebec, British Columbia Construction Association, Builders without Borders, as well as the Rinaldi Foundation in Haiti, has committed to supplying and fabricating 70 tonnes of structural steel valued at over $500,000 for this project. Atlas Tube, a division of JMC Steel Group, has for its part, donated 16 tons of steel hollow structural sections (HSS), to help with this reconstruction.

"Donating steel to help rebuild L'École Lakay is not only critical to the future students of Haiti, but to the future of the construction industry," said David Seeger, president of JMC Steel Group. "Ensuring the ongoing education of Haiti's skilled youth in construction trades will allow these graduates to help rebuild their country and help ensure that the future of the trades and construction industry is bright."

Primarily constructed with steel, this 2,100sqm building will feature 16 classrooms, workshops, washrooms, offices, storage areas, covered walkways and a shaded outdoor space. The cost to rebuild L’École Lakay is projected to be $1.2 million with a targeted completion date in the beginning of 2013. Student enrollment has increased significantly since the previous year and the new building will be able to accommodate 200 students.

The school fulfills an important socio-economic mission by teaching underprivileged and street youth skilled trades such as carpentry, cabinetry, electrical and tailoring to help them escape poverty and establish a sustainable livelihood.

HL/ HaitiLibre