Out of the Allai Valley’s 215 schools, about 200 were badly damaged or completely destroyed. One of CARE’s primary objectives was to help children resume their studies as quickly, and as safely as possible. Other NGOs and the Government of Pakistan distributed large classroom-sized tents to communities, but these structures could only last about six months, and their transience reminds children of the devastation that surrounds them. CARE is building sturdy transitional schools in communities throughout the Allai Valley and stocking them with furniture, equipment and other learning materials both for teachers and students. Permanent structures will be erected nearby, and the transitional buildings will be used as school offices or community centers.

We are working closely with government authorities and communities themselves to determine the best locations for all new school buildings. In addition, we are helping form parent-teacher associations (PTAs) to involve parents – especially mothers – in the education process and to improve education for girls. A total of 20 well constructed temporary schools , all of which have latrines, water supply system and a curriculum of health and hygiene education. Over 3,000 students are currently enrolled. An additional 90 temporary schools are under contract, as well as 20 permanent schools, including the Allai Valley’s first middle school for girls.