CDM Smith Launches Nepal Book Drive GoFundMe
BOSTON—In 2015, a devastating a 7.8 magnitude earthquake ravaged Nepal. It resulted in thousands of deaths and injuries, flattening entire villages. With help from global engineering and construction firm CDM Smith and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), Nepal continues to rebuild resilient and sustainable infrastructure to withstand future threats.
As part of the project, CDM Smith has helped rebuild 12 schools—three primary and nine secondary schools. But, when students return, they will find empty libraries.
Access to books and an education is essential to achieving the vision of a stable, resilient and prosperous Nepal. Unfortunately, there are limited books and no budget for schools to purchase new ones.
“The 2015 earthquake rendered the school buildings useless. The furniture, teaching and learning materials were destroyed,” said a member of the school management committee.
CDM Smith launched a GoFundMe page to raise the funds to purchase 7,000 books and three dozen tablets for the libraries. Working with the school management committees and local book distributors, the firm determined the cost of purchase and delivery, setting the total fundraising goal at $30,000.
The fundraiser runs from June 14 through July 31. Books will be delivered to the schools by mid-August in time for a celebration on September 8, 2021: International Literacy Day.
“This reconstruction project means a great deal for Nepal, for the resilient design, quality of reconstruction and the disadvantaged communities the earthquake targeted,” said CDM Smith project manager Rajeev Thapa. “With the completion of 12 schools, more than 6,000 students will benefit and be able to resume their education in fully furnished, equipped, resilient, inclusive and modern school buildings.”
Students had to study in temporary classrooms after the 2015 earthquake damaged school buildings.
Students attend class in a newly constructed school.
New schools were designed resiliently and sustainably to withstand hazards and reduce utility costs.
A student at the Bandevi Basic School in Kathmandu awaits new books in an empty library.
Your donations will help rebuild a stronger future for Nepal through education.
With the completion of 12 schools, more than 6,000 students will benefit and be able to resume their education in fully furnished, equipped, resilient, inclusive and modern school buildings.
Working on projects that improve the quality of life for communities at home and abroad is a rewarding aspect of CDM Smith careers. Employees not only pride themselves on legendary client service and unmatched technical skills, but also on their culture of caring.
CDM Smith is a privately owned engineering and construction firm providing legendary client service and smart solutions in water, environment, transportation, energy and facilities. Passionate about our work and invested in each other, we are inspired to think and driven to solve the world's environmental and infrastructure challenges.