Posted on 19 August 2022
As part of Habitat for Humanity New Zealand’s disaster response efforts in Tonga, it has formed a partnership with the Tonga Institute of Science and Technology (TIST) to deliver a programme of training which will enhance local community knowledge in Build Back Safer (BBS) methods.
In conjunction with TIST, Habitat is providing second year carpentry students with practical experience to put their training into action to help build up to 12 new homes for vulnerable families affected by the tsunami earlier this year. The two organisations will also work together to find ways BBS training can be delivered to community participants.
“Our approach is always to understand the needs of the community first and work with local partners to develop a plan for what needs to be done,” says Alan Thorp, Group Chief Executive Officer, Habitat for Humanity New Zealand.
“The partnership we’ve announced with TIST is perfect in this regard. Habitat brings our community based experience and programmes to the partnership.”
“We are deeply heartened to be able to work with Habitat to provide additional value to our students, and our curriculum” says Dr Tangikina Moimoi Steen, Chief Executive Officer, Ministry of Education and Training.
“By working with Habitat, we will have a multi-pronged approach which will encompass education and training, provide on-site practical application of these skills in the field to support some of our most vulnerable communities.” says Dr Steen.
