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Site visits: Site visits were made to different types of NRC shelter projects
including temporary and semi-permanent classrooms (Mageyo-bas and Mageyohaut/Mubimbi)
and permanent classrooms and shelters for returnees
(Tura/Giterany). Such visits were carried out in co-ordination with NRC shelter
technicians and staff. Construction plans and detailed bills of quantities were
provided by NRC shelter staff.
3.4 FINDINGS
3.4.1 Schools
The Mission visited three different types of classroom structures constructed by NRC.
All of the schools follow a standard NRC design, with some adaptation to local
conditions. The following outlines the findings relating to each type of structure.
Temporary Classrooms. These classrooms use a wooden structure made of
Eucalyptus poles, plastic sheeting, nails and iron sheets for roofing. On average, a total
of 108 trees are cut to provide the poles for construction. Wooden poles are treated
with used engine oil to protect them from termite infestation. The total area of plastic
sheeting used is approximately 185m 2 and 40.5 corrugated iron sheets are used for the
roof. The unit cost is less than US$1,300 and the average longevity of the structures is
around five years. Such structures have been erected by NRC as a quick response to
the increasing number of returnees settling in the area.
Photo: Temporary structure in Mageyo-Bas
Semi-permanent classrooms. These schools are constructed from adobe (mud)
bricks, Eucalyptus wooden poles and iron sheets. Their foundation is of mud and
stones and the walls are made of mud bricks wall, with a reinforced concrete ring
beam. Eucalyptus poles and iron sheets are again used for the roof framework and
roof, respectively. The foundations and the first 50cm of the walls are made from
stone in order to further protect the structure from damage by moisture. Wooden poles
were again treated with used engine oil in order to protect them from termite
infestation.
The cost of such buildings is around US$3,500. The average longevity of these
structures is estimated to be 15-20 years, providing the bricks are protected from
moisture.
Photo: Semi-permanent structure in Mageyo-Haut
Permanent schools. The permanent structure follows a standard NRC design, with
modifications in order to meet school construction standards laid down by Burundian
law. The structure is made of stone and cement foundations, a reinforced concrete
structure filled in with fired bricks, and a metallic framework covered by iron sheets.
The longevity of the structures is expected to exceed 30 years with adequate
maintenance. The cost of these schools, with latrines, is approximately US$12,000 per
equipped classroom.
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