Speeches, meetings, and dancing, oh my! EWB’s first full day in Ubujan was a whirlwind of information. The day started with the soon-to-be familiar crow of roosters and roar of motorcycles. Then we were off to a morning-long meeting with the health inspector of Inabanga, a teacher at the elementary school, and the Ubujan sanitary aid, among others. We were so encouraged to hear about existing solar disinfection (SODIS), chlorination, and sanitation programs in Ubujan! Even more exciting, in our afternoon meeting with the Water Council, the council members asked us about chlorination, SODIS, and boiling water as well. We are working with an incredibly bright and interested group of people! Now what we need is to connect all of the passion and interest into a long-term result.
Perhaps the most memorable part of the day for me was meeting with the community and the bonding that followed it. Standing on the stage of the Barangay (town) Hall, we introduced ourselves and talked about the project so far. Afterwards, everyone was welcome to ask us questions. One man asked if we, as a team of women, thought we were prepared to help them. In response, Carrie proudly pumped the air and said that she has been a practicing engineer for 14 years and has never had an unsuccessful project. This was an inspiring moment for me and probably many others. With highly experienced professionals and an ambitious team of students, this team will be able to bring Ubujan clean water.
Following the community meeting, the first impromptu dance party of the trip began. Music blasted from the speakers we had just been using for the community meeting. The children stood shyly around as we tried to convince them to dance. It took a few Macarena, chicken, and swing dances to get everyone into it, but soon we were laughing and running around. It was a sweet end to a serious day of work in Ubujan.
Peace, Love, & EWB,
Sarah

EWB meets Ubujan

Dancing