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| The Timbaktu Collective |
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The region is described as semi-arid tropics as there is very little rainfall. Many of the villages in this region are poor because of the traditionally unreliable rainy season, exacerbated by the degradation of the land as a result of abusive agricultural techniques. PROJECT OVERVIEW
The objective of the Timbaktu Collective is to make a lasting
improvement in the lives of the people of the area. They encourage the
practice of permaculture - a sustainable and eco-friendly form of
agriculture, organize women's sangams to deal with problems faced by
women and run an alternative education program for children.
Read more about the Timbaktu Collective.
LEVEL OF EDUCATION They operate a day school in each of six villages and a residential school in 'timbaktu', the land they bought to practice permaculture on. These schools are meant for children who have dropped out of the local government schools. The type of education they offer is 'alternative' in the sense that it does not resemble the conventional form of education. A strong sense of identity with the village is inculcated in the children. They are taught traditional songs and dances and village lore in the schools. DETAILS The project proposal was first received by Asha-Stanford in 1994, and visited and reviewed by Asha-NYC/NJ. It was co-funded by the two chapters for a year. The funds the schools receive from Asha are used for purchase of books, other schooling aids and for day-to-day operation of the school.
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