We are up and running! On 10 February, students, graduates and qualified engineers gathered at the CUBE in Manchester for the official launch of the North West branch of Engineers for Overseas Development (EfOD).
An organisation set up to engender a philosophy of engineer-led developmental aid, EfOD is now in its 10th year of existence.
On the launch night, prospective volunteers discovered more about the first project to be undertaken by the North West branch – to design and build a waste disposal facility for a small community hospital in Kumi, Uganda (similar to photo). The hospital – and community in general – has already played host to several developmental aid projects, and with this new undertaking, we aim to solidify the gains made. Providing medical waste disposal facilities will enable the hospital to effectively and safely dispose of waste, and in turn also raises awareness of health and safety.
It is also an exciting opportunity for engineers! All aspects of the project will be managed by volunteers, from the planning, fundraising, designing and logistics, to supervising the construction process in Uganda. Through participation in this multi-disciplinary challenge, individuals involved will make a difference in the developing world, whilst also becoming more well-rounded engineers. It also offers an ideal opportunity to sample a different field of engineering that one may not be exposed to on a day-to-day basis.
So why don’t you join us? We are still looking to recruit more volunteers from all backgrounds and disciplines, to help us undertake all aspects of the project.
Get involved in the challenge, get in touch!
Jack Rose, Chairman, EfOD North West
Contact e efod.nw@gmail.com or www.efod.org.uk