Engineers Without Borders Sweden Partners with IT for Children to Empower Digital Education in Ghana

In an exciting development for global digital education, Engineers Without Borders Sweden (EWB-SWE) has announced a forthcoming collaboration with IT for Children, a non-profit organization based in Sweden with extensive operations in Ghana, West Africa. This partnership aims to leverage the expertise of Swedish engineers to foster digital literacy and skills among young students and teachers in Ghana.

A Synergy of Expertise and Compassion

EWB-SWE is renowned for its commitment to harnessing engineering skills for the greater good, particularly in areas that benefit underprivileged communities around the world. The organization's digitalization group stands at the forefront of this initiative, offering a wealth of knowledge and experience in cutting-edge technologies. IT for Children, on the other hand, has been instrumental in providing high-quality, free IT education to thousands of Ghanaian children and youth daily. Their mission is rooted in the belief that information and communications technology (ICT) is pivotal for the robust and sustainable development of a nation.

Volunteering Opportunities for Graduate Engineers

The collaboration presents a unique opportunity for graduate engineers eager to make a difference. Volunteers will mentor and teach IT for Children’s teachers in Ghana, covering vital areas such as web development, robotics, and 2D/3D animations. These sessions will be conducted remotely, allowing volunteers to contribute from anywhere, breaking geographical barriers and opening up a realm of possibilities for digital education.

A Shared Vision for the Future

“We at IT for Children are very excited to enter this partnership with Engineers without Borders. We are in constant need of engineering expertise in our operations in Ghana. I know that there are so many engaged and skilled engineers out there who have so much to offer. We are very grateful if some of these engineers will offer their time and knowledge to our students and teachers in Ghana,” expressed Torsten Kjellgren, Founder & CEO of IT for Children.

About IT for Children

IT for Children operates with a vision that echoes the transformative power of ICT in education. Situated in Ghana, they strive to equip the next generation with the tools and knowledge necessary to contribute to their country's development. Their work underscores the importance of accessible, quality education as a cornerstone for progress.

Join the Movement

– This partnership between EWB-SWE and IT for Children marks a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and empowering young minds in Ghana with the skills needed for the future. We would like to encourage engineers who wish to volunteer and be part of this cause to get in touch. Your expertise can make a real difference, said Caroline Edelstam, Secretary-General of EWB-SWE.

Both organisations look forward to this collaboration, and believe that the combined efforts of Engineers Without Borders Sweden and IT for Children will pave the way for a brighter, more connected world.

EWB-SWE Gains Support from Alstom Foundation for WASH Projects in Tanzanian Schools

Engineers Without Borders Sweden (EWB-SWE) has received support from the Alstom Foundation to increase efforts in supporting children’s education through better Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) access in Karagwe, Tanzania. This effort builds on EWB-SWE's ongoing work in improving vital services in rural Tanzanian areas.

Working with the Mavuno Project, a local non-profit organisation, EWB-SWE has already built 25 water tanks in schools, providing clean water to around 20,000 children and 160 adults. This has led to better health, more regular school attendance, and improved school performance—with reports showing up to a 25% increase in one school's results.

The contribution from the Alstom Foundation will allow EWB-SWE to expand their WASH activities. The project will pay special attention to girls' education by adding specific sanitary and hygiene measures and campaigning for better understanding and support. This includes working with the Maji Safi Group, experts in Menstrual Health Hygiene (MHH).

The funds will be used for:

• Improving access to safe drinking water, clean toilets, and facilities for hygiene and menstruation in schools.

• Building skills and spreading the word about Menstrual Hygiene Health (MHH) and how to maintain clean water, to make a lasting difference.

• Increasing the involvement of government in school services.

• Keeping track of progress, evaluating success, and learning from the project's outcomes.

The aim of the project is to make a positive change in the education of 2,400 girls and 2,300 boys in five schools by improving health and ensuring they can attend school regularly. The plans include:

• Building two new rainwater tanks for 1,600 children and 20 teachers, leading to better health, 70 more hours of class time each day, and 380,000 litres of water every year.

• Constructing 40 ecosan toilets in two schools for 1,900 children.

• Making two special rooms for hygiene and menstruation care for 460 girls.

• Teaching 500 people, including government workers, community members, and teachers from the five schools about MHH, to increase knowledge and stop the shaming of menstruation.

• Strengthening talks with the local government to push for better education facilities.

With these steps, EWB-SWE is determined to improve the educational experiences of students in Tanzania by showing the important link between education, health, and access to clean water and sanitation facilities.

The images below are from the construction of the new water tank at Nyakabila Primary School in Nyakasimbi, Karagwe District, Kagera, Tanzania. The first images are from February, and the three below are from this month.

See images from the project

World Social Justice Day: Promoting Fairness and Empowerment

Established in 2007 and first observed in 2009, the United Nations General Assembly designated 20 February as World Day of Social Justice, also known as Social Justice Equality Day. This international day recognizes the need to promote social justice, which includes efforts to tackle issues such as poverty, exclusion, gender inequality, unemployment, and human rights.

This day provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress of the work that has been done over the years and to identify the challenges that still remain. It also serves as a reminder of the efforts necessary to build a fairer and more inclusive society for everyone.

Social justice is a basic principle that guides the work of organizations like EWB-SWE. Our aim is to harness the skills of engineers and technical professionals to power innovative solutions and solve challenges related to inequality and global development in Sweden and around the world. EWB-SWE's commitment to social justice is manifested in various ways:

Empowering Communities:

EWB-SWE believes in empowering communities to identify their own needs and priorities and come up with sustainable solutions. We work hand-in-hand with local grassroots organizations to bring lasting, positive change, sharing knowledge and finding sustainable solutions that truly work.

Fair Access to Resources:

EWB-SWE advocates for fair access to resources such as clean water, healthcare, and education. Many of our projects are linked to schools, aiming to improve education, while others are connected to healthcare facilities. These basic needs are crucial for promoting social justice and improving the lives of communities.

Gender Equality:

We recognize that gender equality is key to achieving social justice. We hold that everyone should be entitled to a safe life and the opportunity to reach their full potential. EWB-SWE initiates projects aimed at ensuring that women and girls have equal access to education and opportunities in their communities.

Sustainable Practices:

We understand the intrinsic connection between social justice and environmental stewardship. We integrate sustainable solutions into our projects to ensure everyone's right to a sustainable future.

On World Social Justice Day, organizations like EWB-SWE play an important role by promoting fairness, empowerment, and justice across the globe. By working together, we can strive towards a future where everyone enjoys the same rights, opportunities, and access to resources, regardless of their origin or circumstances. Together, we can build a fairer and more inclusive society for all.

Read more about Social Justice Day on the UN.org: https://www.un.org/en/observances/social-justice-day

Article in Global Bar Magazine about Mavuno Modal Girls Secondary School

The article "Tanzania: The School Where Girls' Dreams Take Flight," by Elin Persson in Global Bar Magazine, highlights the success of Mavuno Modal Girls Secondary School in Tanzania, which has been significantly supported for many years by EWB Sweden in cooperation with EWB Germany.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Located in the Kagera region near Lake Victoria, the boarding school for girls offers education and protection against early marriage, a common practice in rural areas despite being illegal before age 18. The school, celebrated for its empowered students and dedicated teaching staff, ranked 53rd out of 5,060 high schools in national exams. Key to its success are the self-motivation of the girls, who see education as a pathway out of poverty, and the strong community ownership of the school, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2024. The school also addresses challenges such as menstrual hygiene and access to clean water, significantly improving attendance and health outcomes. Through education, the school aims to provide a foundation for girls to achieve their dreams, becoming leaders and professionals in their communities.

GLOBAL BAR MAGAZINE

Global Bar Magazine is Sweden’s leading magazine on global issues, aiming to cover global development issues with a focus on the Global South, development cooperation, sustainability, new solutions and human rights. Most of the articles are in Swedish, there are articles in English and Spanish as well. The magazine has 30 000 readers per month.

Envisioning a Sustainable Future: The International Day of Clean Energy

The United Nations General Assembly declared January 26 as International Day of Clean Energy to commemorate the founding of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in 2009. In a world that faces the daily impacts of climate change, there is an urgent need to transition towards a sustainable energy system. This day is a moment when nations, communities, and individuals unite and commit to working for a sustainable future. 

The Importance of Clean Energies

Adopting clean energy would help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to data from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), carbon dioxide emissions could be reduced by up to 70 gigatonnes by 2050. This is essential to limit global warming and reduce the impact of climate change.

What is Clean Energy?

First of all, we need to distinguish between Clean Energy and Renewable Energy. Renewable energies base their production and origin on a natural source, such as water, wind, among others. The source of these energies is inexhaustible. Clean energy is generated and consumed using methods that do not generate carbon dioxide or any other type of polluting substance for the environment. For this reason, clean energy helps us reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and reduce our environmental impact, promoting long-term sustainability.

Types of Clean Energy

1. Solar Energy: Solar energy uses solar radiation to produce electricity using photovoltaic panels. In addition, solar thermal energy uses the heat of the sun to produce steam and generate electricity.

2. Wind Energy: Wind energy uses wind energy to produce electricity using wind turbines. These devices convert the kinetic energy of the wind into electricity.

3. Hydropower: Hydropower uses the kinetic energy of moving water to produce electricity, controlling the flow of water for continuous energy production.

4. Geothermal Energy: Geothermal energy depends on the Earth's internal heat. It uses thermal energy stored underground to produce electricity or provide heat.

5. Biomass Energy: Biomass uses organic materials such as agricultural or forestry residues to produce energy through controlled combustion or conversion to biogas.

6. Wave Energy: Wave energy harnesses the movement of ocean waves to generate electricity. Although still in its development stages, wave energy has great potential to complement other clean energy sources.

7. Energy from Ocean Currents: Using technologies such as underwater turbines, the energy generated by ocean currents can be used to produce electricity.

In conclusion, the path to sustainability requires the work and cooperation of all sectors of society. Governments need to develop policies that incentivize clean energy, businesses need to prioritize sustainability, and individuals can contribute by making conscious choices in their daily lives. The International Clean Energy Day is not just a celebration; it is also a call to action, a reminder that our actions today shape the world of tomorrow. This day gives us the opportunity to reflect on the importance of the energy transition, symbolizing hope, unity, and commitment to taking concrete steps towards a more sustainable future.

The transition to clean energy is an investment in the well-being of future generations. It's an opportunity to reshape our economies and societies. The Day of Clean Energy serves as a call to action, encouraging governments, businesses, and individuals to invest in and support the growing green economy.

“Engineers Without Borders was the obvious choice…”

Engineers Without Borders Sweden (EWB-SWE) expresses its deep gratitude to Mr. Staffan Truvé, co-winner of the prestigious 2023 Polhemspriset award, who generously donates his part of the prize sum consisting of 125,000 SEK to our organization.

Staffan Truvé, the co-founder and CTO of Recorded Future, was recognized for his groundbreaking work in real-time cyberattack detection and analysis.

Staffan Truvé

Polhemspriset, one of Sweden's most esteemed technology awards, has a rich history of honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to the country's technological advancement. It is administered by Sveriges Ingenjörer and recognizes those who have propelled Sweden's technical development forward.

“I was honoured to receive the Polhem Prize, and wanted to use the prize to support a good cause that also show the impact engineering can have on helping humanity, and with those conditions Engineers Without Borders was the obvious choice,” says Staffan Truvé.

Staffan Truvé's exceptional donation will greatly support EWB-SWE in its mission to address global challenges through humanitarian engineering and sustainable solutions. We applaud Mr. Truvé's commitment to making the world a better place through his generosity and groundbreaking work.

Watch the film with this year's Polhem Prize winners Christopher Ahlberg and Staffan Truvé where they talk about their innovation and their journey with the company Recorded Future - the world's largest privately held intelligence service, with 17,000 customers from around the world.

Exceptional Academic Achievement at Mavuno Modal Girl’s Secondary School

We are delighted to announce a remarkable achievement at Mavuno Modal Girl’s Secondary School, the project in focus of our current winter campaign. In the recent national exams for Form 2 students, the school secured an outstanding 53rd place out of 5060 secondary schools in Tanzania.

This achievement is especially significant considering that many of the girls studying at the school come from village schools with limited resources, and some are orphans or hail from economically disadvantaged families.

The school has a long-standing history of delivering exceptional academic results, showcasing the transformative power of education in rural and underprivileged regions. This achievement highlights the importance of supporting schools like Mavuno Modal Girl’s Secondary School and promoting extended education opportunities for girls. It underscores the positive impact of our donor community, whose contributions are making a significant difference in the lives of these students and their communities.

We are immensely proud of Mavuno Modal Girl’s Secondary School  academic excellence, and we remain committed to continuing our support for their educational endeavors. Our ongoing project focuses on the construction of a new high school building to expand and enhance the school’s facilities. Together, we are building a brighter future for these girls and their community. 

Stay tuned for more updates on our winter campaign and the impact your donations are making.

Read more about our school project here

Brainpod at Engineering Day: Perspectives of the Engineer’s role in the climate transition→

Listen to our pod session at Engineering Day/Ingenjörsdagen on November 23, exploring perspectives of the engineer’s role in the climate transition. Hosted by Caroline Edelstam, Secretary General of EWB-SWE, with prominent guests from the European Commission, Norden International, KTH, STING, and Womengineer.

Guests in this pod session were:

Erik von Pistohlkors, Deputy Head of Representation at the European Commission in Sweden.

Mats Hellström, Chairman of Norden International and Sweden’s former Minister of Foreign Trade, European and Nordic Affairs, and Sweden’s former Minister of Agriculture.

Terrence Brown, Professor in Technology-based Entrepreneurship at KTH.

Karin Ruiz, ClimateTech Lead at Sting.

Marie Ideström, founder and CEO of Womengineer.

We would like to extend a warm thank you to our guests for their participation, and to Max Persson and Linus Persson at Ingenjörsdagen for this great opportunity and for creating such a great event for partners and visitors alike.

Celebrating the Power of Collective Action: International Volunteer Day

In a world filled with challenges—inequality, global warming, injustice—we all carry our baggage. But where some feel a burden, others discover their strength and find inspiration to take action.PHOTO:UNV

This year, as the world commemorates International Volunteer Day (IVD) on December 5, the focus is on the transformative power of collective action — a theme that resonates deeply with Engineers Without Borders Sweden (EWB-SWE). With the underlying message of 'if everyone did,' this day highlights the limitless possibilities of volunteerism in driving positive sustainable development, fostering inclusive societies, and addressing global challenges.

At EWB-SWE, we proudly stand as a testament to the power of volunteerism. Our organization is driven by the commitment of volunteers - from professional engineers to other specialists, and dedicated students in major university cities. These individuals form the backbone of our operations, embodying the spirit of volunteerism in every project and initiative.

862.4 million volunteers worldwide

According to the 2022 report by the United Nations Volunteers (UNV), there are approximately 862.4 million volunteers worldwide, with most volunteering informally among individuals. While 14.3% of the global population engages in this informal volunteering, 6.5% participate in formal volunteering through organizations. Interestingly, while formal volunteers predominantly consist of men, women are more likely to be informal volunteers.

Volunteers play a crucial role

Volunteerism stands as a renewable resource for addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. Volunteers are often the first responders in crises, demonstrating immense resilience and dedication in testing situations. Their role is crucial in building inclusive, peaceful societies, and in achieving goals like universal education, environmental sustainability, and public health.

Driving positive change

This International Volunteer Day, EWB-SWE joins the global community in recognizing and celebrating the invaluable contributions of volunteers. Our own volunteers, through their expertise and commitment, play a pivotal role in our efforts to create sustainable solutions and drive positive change. Their collective actions reflect the theme of this year's IVD: the extraordinary impact that can be achieved when everyone contributes.

#IfEveryoneDid

We would like to join in acknowledging volunteers worldwide by using the hashtags #IfEveryoneDid and #IVD2023. This day, mandated by the UN General Assembly, is not just an occasion to celebrate volunteer efforts but also to share values, promote work in communities, and collaborate with NGOs, UN agencies, government authorities, and the private sector.

In line with the UNV's advocacy for volunteer recognition and its integration into development programming, we at EWB-SWE continue to mobilize volunteers, harnessing their potential to contribute to sustainable development. This International Volunteer Day, let us all acknowledge and celebrate the power of collective action and the remarkable difference each volunteer can make in creating a better world for all.

Caroline Edelstam, Secretary-General, Engineers Without Borders Sweden

Throw Back to Engineering Day!

Engineering Day 2023 is over. We would like to thank everyone who participated in our pod session and debate article, plus all the interested visitors to our little EWB-SWE “booth”, all the interesting speakers, and of course the people behind Ingenjörsdagen – Thank you for a great event! We will share a few photos from the event by courtesy of Ingenjörsdagen.

Congratulations to the winners of the Grand Prize for Engineering 2023.

Inclusion – Binette Seck, Space Academy

Innovation – Team EasyMining, Ragnsells

Leadership – Olof Johansson, Trafikverket

Role model of the year – Thomas Dalmalm och Per Vedin, Trafikverket

Sustainability – Fredrik Jonsson och Patrik Sundberg, Skellefteå Kraft

Student – Paula Runsten och Felix Kruse, Rebaba

Opinion: The Engineering Crisis Threatens Sweden's Future

Sweden, the land of peace and innovation. Sweden, where unicorns stand in a row. Our companies have flourished on the global stage thanks to our skilled workforce. The legendary entrepreneur Jason Calacanis once said that there are only two places for investors: Silicon Valley and Stockholm.

Today, along with the rest of the world, we face significant challenges. Challenges that could be solved with the help of technology and engineering. However, the current situation, with a severe shortage of engineers, threatens not just Sweden's success but also the future of the world.

The shortage of engineers is not news. For decades, companies, universities, and research institutes in Sweden have struggled to find enough technical competence to drive their projects and businesses forward. However, it is clear that the government's actions in recent years have not been sufficient to meet this challenge. 

One of the most critical issues is the Swedish bureaucracy and its slow handling of education and workforce immigration. It is absurd that companies in desperate need of engineers are forced to wait months, sometimes years, for the necessary permits to be processed. In a global context where technological development is fast, every lost day is a lost competitive advantage.

Another aspect of the engineer shortage that deserves special attention is the uneven representation of genders within the technology sector. Women still constitute a minority among engineers, and this is an issue that concerns not only fairness and equality but also the loss of the benefits of diversity. New perspectives are required for further innovation.

The necessity of engineers extends beyond the economy. In the transition towards a climate-smart world, where we must develop and implement new technologies to reduce our environmental impact and preserve the planet's resources, engineers play a crucial role. They are the ones who design and implement sustainable energy solutions and create innovative methods to reduce our climate impact.

Addressing climate change and building a sustainable future requires increased engineering competence and efficient management of technological innovation. Therefore, the government should see the shortage of engineers as a matter of both economic competitiveness and climate protection and take action accordingly. It is high time to ensure that we have the necessary resources and talents to meet the challenges of the future.

The government should consider tax incentives for companies that invest in technical skill development and hire more engineers. This would encourage companies to prioritize technical competence and help to educate and recruit more engineers. The government should also consider mentoring programs where senior female engineers can support and mentor younger ones, thereby giving them the experience, guidance, and, most importantly, comradeship that can be lacking for female engineers.

In the end, this is about ensuring Sweden's future and our economic survival. We can no longer ignore the problem of the shortage of engineers, and it is high time we begin to act with the urgency that the situation demands. Sweden deserves its place as a world leader, but only as long as we invest in our own population. It's time for the government to wake up.

Signed by:

Caroline Edelstam, Secretary-General for Engineers Without Borders

Mats Hellström, Chairman of Norden International, former Minister for Foreign Trade and Agriculture in Sweden, Ambassador and UN delegate

Marie Ideström, Co-founder and CEO of Womengineer

Linus Persson, Founder of Ingenjörsdagen / Engineering Day Sweden

Shiva Sander-Tavallaey, AI Specialist and Adjunct Professor at KTH

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This opinion piece has been republished in several Swedish media outlets. Please see our Press Room.

Empowering Children through a Rights-Based Approach

EWB-SWE’s Commitment on World Children's Day 2023

As we celebrate World Children's Day 2023, Engineers Without Borders Sweden (EWB-Swe) takes pride in aligning our mission with a profound commitment to upholding the rights of every child. This global observance, marked annually on November 20th, commemorates the adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) in 1989. This year's theme, 'For Every Child, Every Right', resonates deeply with our dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of children worldwide.

Orphanage centre in Chonyonyo, Karagwe, Tanzania

The Roots of World Children's Day

Since 1954, World Children's Day has served as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing children's rights in the pursuit of a better world. The UNCRC outlines the special rights children require for protection, care, and support during their formative years.

A Rights-Based Approach

At EWB-Swe, we actively incorporate a rights-based approach into our projects, recognizing the transformative impact it can have on the well-being of individuals and communities. This approach goes beyond traditional aid models, viewing children and adults not as passive beneficiaries but as active agents in decisions shaping their lives.  In essence, a rights-based approach centers on recognizing and fulfilling the fundamental rights of individuals, primarily children, ensuring they actively participate in the decision-making processes that affect them. By prioritizing these rights, our aim is to empower communities, enabling children to assert their entitlement to respect, protection, and the necessary support for their rightful development.

Example Project: An Initiative to Improve Education Facilities in Tanzania (SWASH Project)

In collaboration with the Tanzanian aid organization Mavuno Project, EWB-SWE has been actively engaged in a transformative initiative for over ten years. Focused on multiple districts in North-Western Tanzania, this SWASH (School Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) project aims to systematically enhance water and sanitation conditions in 131 primary schools, benefitting approximately 80,000 children.

Orphanage centre in Chonyonyo, Karagwe, Tanzania

The reality in these regions involves overcrowded, understaffed schools with substandard infrastructure and limited access to water and electricity. This challenging environment significantly hampers the quality of education, with insufficient drinking water, unsanitary conditions, and a lack of facilities for girls during menstruation leading to a high absence rate. EWB-SWE's goal has been to implement water tanks providing clean water in 30 schools. Despite numerous challenges, 21 schools have already received clean water, benefiting over 20,000 students.

Our ongoing efforts include designing adequate toilets, exploring water purification techniques, and enhancing water quality in collaboration with Mavuno. This holistic approach not only improves water access but also contributes to creating a conducive environment for education, health, and overall well-being, where children of the communities can have a happy childhood.

On this World Children's Day

EWB-Swe invites you to join us in championing a rights-based approach to secure every child's safety, happiness, and access to opportunities. Together, we can create a world where children's rights are not just acknowledged but actively upheld, fostering a brighter future for generations to come. In supporting initiatives like our SWASH project, we strive to make a lasting impact on children's lives, ensuring they grow up in environments that nurture their potential and provide a foundation for a better tomorrow.

Sakib Muktadir

SAKIB MUKTADIR, INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS INTERN AT EWB-SWE

The importance of Good Sanitation: Celebrating World Toilet Day November 19 and Combatting Health Issues

World Toilet Day, observed every November 19th, serves as a reminder that sanitation is fundamental for human health and well-being. Despite its apparent importance, millions worldwide still lack adequate toilets, leading to severe health problems. This article emphasizes the consequences of poor sanitation, including the spread of diseases, malnutrition, and a cycle of poverty. Organizations like Engineers Without Borders Sweden play a crucial role in addressing these challenges through technical expertise and sustainable solutions​​ within the WASH area – Water, Sanitation and Hygiene.

The following article is available in both English and Swedish, please check below.

The Importance of Good Sanitation: Celebrating World Toilet Day and Combatting Health Issues

World Toilet Day, observed every year on November 19th, serves as a reminder that sanitation and good hygiene are fundamental to people's health and well-being. Despite these needs seeming obvious to many, millions of people around the world still suffer from the lack of adequate toilets and proper sanitation, leading to serious health problems.

In many communities, access to proper toilet facilities is lacking, forcing people to use open areas or makeshift latrines. This not only undermines their dignity but also creates an environment where diseases can easily spread. Without protection from water resource contamination, the risk of waterborne diseases dramatically increases.

Children are particularly vulnerable

One of the primary consequences of the lack of toilets and proper sanitation is the spread of diarrheal diseases. In many cases, this is a direct result of contaminated water from inadequate sewage systems. Children are particularly vulnerable, and diarrhea stands as a leading cause of death among children under five in communities with poor sanitary conditions.

Additionally, inadequate sanitation has a negative impact on nutrition intake. People often avoid eating or drinking enough to avoid using poor sanitary facilities. This leads to malnutrition and can particularly affect the physical and cognitive development of children.

Lack of sanitation creates a cycle of poverty

Furthermore, the lack of proper toilets and sewage systems creates a cycle of poverty. People spend significant portions of their time searching for safe places to fulfill their needs instead of engaging in work or education. As a result, economic opportunities decline, and communities stagnate.

On World Toilet Day, it is crucial that we reflect on these issues and strive for solutions. Sanitation infrastructure is not just a technical challenge but a fundamental human right. To break the cycle of health problems and economic stagnation, a global effort is required to provide access to toilets and implement sustainable sanitation solutions.

Technical expertise is vital

This is where organizations like Engineers Without Borders Sweden play a crucial role. By combining technical expertise with sustainable technologies, we aim to improve sanitary conditions in communities worldwide. In this way, we can address the urgent health problems while contributing to long-term change.

Celebrating World Toilet Day is not just a symbolic act but a reminder of our shared duty to ensure that no one suffers from the lack of toilets and proper sanitation. By supporting organizations and initiatives working to overcome these challenges, we can collectively build a healthier and more sustainable future for all.

Ebba Lewenhaupt,
Student Intern at EWB-SWE

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Vikten av god sanitet: Att hylla Toalettens Dag och att bekämpa hälsoproblem

Toalettens Dag, som uppmärksammas den 19 november varje år, är en påminnelse om att sanitet och god hygien är grundläggande för människors hälsa och välbefinnande. Trots att dessa behov kan tyckas självklara för många, lider miljontals människor över hela världen fortfarande av bristen på adekvata toaletter och god sanitet, vilket leder till allvarliga hälsoproblem.

I många samhällen saknas tillgången till ordentliga toalettanläggningar, vilket tvingar människor att använda öppna områden eller improviserade latriner. Detta inte bara underminerar deras värdighet utan skapar också en miljö där sjukdomar lätt kan spridas. Utan skydd mot kontaminering av vattenresurser ökar risken för vattenburna sjukdomar dramatiskt.

Barn är särskilt sårbara

En av de främsta konsekvenserna av bristen på toaletter och god sanitet är spridningen av diarresjukdomar. I många fall är detta en direkt följd av förorenat vatten från otillräckliga avloppssystem. Barn är särskilt sårbara, och diarré står som en av de främsta dödsorsakerna bland barn under fem år i samhällen där sanitära förhållanden är bristfälliga.

Ytterligare en följd av otillräcklig sanering är den negativa påverkan på näringsintaget. Människor undviker ofta att äta eller dricka tillräckligt för att undvika att använda dåliga sanitära faciliteter. Detta leder till undernäring och kan särskilt påverka barns fysiska och kognitiva utveckling.

Brist på toaletter ger cykel av fattigdom

Bristen på ordentliga toaletter och avloppssystem riskerar att skapa en cykel av fattigdom. Människor spenderar stora delar av sin tid på jakt efter säkra platser för att utföra sina behov istället för att delta i arbete eller utbildning. Således försämras ekonomiska möjligheter och samhällen stagnerar.

På Toalettens Dag (World Toilet Day) är det avgörande att vi reflekterar över dessa problem och strävar efter lösningar. Sanitetsinfrastruktur är inte bara en teknisk utmaning utan en grundläggande mänsklig rättighet. För att bryta den onda cirkeln av hälsoproblem och ekonomisk stagnation krävs en global satsning på att tillhandahålla tillgång till toaletter och implementera hållbara saneringslösningar.

Teknisk expertis spelar en avgörande roll

Det är här organisationer som Ingenjörer utan Gränser Sverige spelar en avgörande roll. Genom att kombinera teknisk expertis med hållbara teknologier strävar vi efter att förbättra sanitära förhållanden i samhällen över hela världen. På detta sätt kan vi adressera de akuta hälsoproblemen och samtidigt bidra till en långsiktig förändring.

Att hylla Toalettens Dag är inte bara en symbolisk handling utan en påminnelse om vår gemensamma skyldighet att säkerställa att ingen människa lider av bristen på toaletter och god sanitet. Genom att stödja organisationer och initiativ som arbetar för att övervinna dessa utmaningar kan vi tillsammans bygga en hälsosammare och mer hållbar framtid för alla.

Ebba Lewenhaupt,
Student Intern at EWB-SWE

World Science Day for Peace and Development – November 10th

World Science Week begins on November 10

World Science Day for Peace and Development, celebrated during the week of November 10th, highlights the profound connection between science, peace, and development. The United Nations General Assembly recognizes the pivotal role science and technology play in international peace and security. These advancements are influenced by political and economic decisions, underlining the need to leverage scientific achievements for the betterment of society.

However, one significant challenge is the diversion of valuable scientific talent and financial resources into the arms race, resources that could otherwise address pressing global issues. Engineers are well-equipped to tackle these challenges, with their expertise in innovation, sustainability, and problem-solving.

Engineers are not just builders; they are change-makers. They play a crucial role in finding sustainable solutions to pressing global issues, from clean energy and infrastructure development to healthcare and climate change mitigation.

International cooperation among scientists and engineers is strongly encouraged by the United Nations. This cooperation is essential in addressing complex, cross-border challenges. Engineers, with their problem-solving mindset and practical skills, can be at the forefront of these collaborative efforts.

Engineers Without Borders Sweden (EWB-Swe) is a shining example of how engineers can contribute to peace and development. Our mission revolves around providing sustainable solutions that enhance the lives of communities, especially in vulnerable regions. EWB-SWE is engaged in various projects, from water supply initiatives to educational programs, exemplifying how engineers can be agents of positive change.

EWB-Swe's impactful work is organized through a thematic matrix comprising three central elements: "Healthy Hospitals," "Safe and Sustainable Learning," and "Sustainable & Resilient Communities." These elements are strategically designed to bolster community capacity. We operate across multiple domains, including Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), Energy & Waste, Sustainable Construction, and Digitalization, all united by a common objective: the realization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As we celebrate World Science Day for Peace and Development, we recognize that engineers hold the key to driving innovation and sustainable solutions for the world's most pressing challenges. Through international cooperation and learning from organizations like EWB-Swe, engineers can collectively pave the way toward a more peaceful and prosperous world.

Join us in engineering a brighter future for generations to come!

Sakib Muktadir

SAkib Muktadir, International Projects Intern at EWB-SWE

Spotlight on EWB-SWE: A Conversation with Chairperson Malabika Ray→

In a recent feature by Equal IT, the spotlight was on Engineers Without Borders Sweden (EWB-SWE), highlighting our volunteer-driven efforts in engineering for humanity. Chair of the EWB-SWE’s Board, Malabika Ray, had been invited to share insights into the our mission and activities.

Malabika passionately articulated the essence of EWB-SWE, emphasizing our commitment to sustainability and our mission to mobilize engineering expertise for the empowerment and resilience of communities, today and in the future. She talked about our focused activities, aimed at building a sustainable future for communities worldwide, and underscored the crucial role that volunteers play in driving our initiatives.

For those interested in learning more about our work or exploring partnership opportunities, visit our website and consider following EWB-SWE on LinkedIn for updates and more information.

Watch the full conversation with Malabika Ray on Equal IT’s YouTube channel, where she provides a richer understanding of our organization's background, focus areas, and the significant contributions of our volunteers.

Equal IT is a mission-driven business supporting organisations globally to recruit inclusive teams through refined talent acquisition complemented by diversity and inclusion consulting.

Sustaid and EWB-SWE in new collaboration

We are glad to announce that Engineers Without Borders Sweden and Sustaid have initiated a collaboration. This collaboration brings together two organizations driven by a mission to create meaningful, sustainable change.

Sustaid is focused on improving the lives of the most vulnerable individuals in crisis- and disaster-affected areas. Sustaid facilitates sustainable innovations and solutions through cross-sectoral partnerships, and their work is aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 17, emphasizing the importance of collaboration for optimal long-term impact.

”Ingenuity and collaboration lie at the heart of both our organizations," said Caroline Edelstam, Secretary General of EWB-SWE. "We believe that our expertise in humanitarian engineering will greatly complement Sustaid's efforts to propel sustainable innovations in the most vulnerable places."

For over 15 years, EWB-SWE has leveraged its technical expertise to build a more equitable and resilient world. Like Sustaid, we aim to bridge gaps—whether structural or cultural—between aid organizations, businesses, and innovation hubs. This partnership promises to further enrich our international engagement and strengthen our collective impact.

Rexel Supports Solar Energy Project for Newborns in Tanzania

We are happy to announce a donation from Rexel toward our solar energy project aimed at saving the lives of underweight newborns at the Lugala Lutheran Hospital in Tanzania.

Charlotte Asplund, from Rexel Marketing Department, expressed her company's commitment: "At Rexel, we offer products and services for safer electrical installations and more comfortable properties. Alongside our customers, we aim for energy-smart, economically-smart, and environmentally-smart solutions in every project we undertake. We're both happy and proud to have donated to Engineers Without Borders Sweden to support their work in installing solar panels at the hospital in Tanzania."

Rexel raised the funds through a customer survey, donating 10 SEK for each response. "Every answer we receive in the customer survey represents a donation of 10 kronor toward EWB-SWE’s project to save the lives of 15 newborns and support quality care for 490 newborns per year due to the absence of power outages," Asplund added.

Life-saving machinery

EWB-SWE has been involved in various infrastructure projects at the Lugala Lutheran Hospital, located in the village of Lugala in Malinyi district, Morogoro region in Tanzania, including water sanitation and energy-efficient laundry facilities. 

The current project aims to install a solar photovoltaic system to provide a sustainable source of energy to the hospital’s Kangaroo Mother Care Unit (KMCU). This will ensure that life-saving machinery remains operational in the neonatal unit even when the local electrical grid fails. The KMCU is specifically designed to care for underweight newborns, providing them with a better chance for survival.

In collaboration with the hospital and our local partner, Tanzania Renewable Energy Association (TAREA), EWB-SWE will also train staff on maintaining and optimising the new solar photovoltaic system. The objective is to empower the hospital to provide continuous care, alleviating the immediate and long-term risks posed by unreliable electricity supply.

Caroline Edelstam, Secretary General of EWB-SWE, said, "Donations like these play a crucial role in the success of our ongoing projects and our long-term initiatives that aim to bring sustainable solutions and empower communities. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Rexel for their support.” 

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Inspired by Rexel´s initiative?

Join us in our goal to provide a sustainable energy source for the neonatal unit at Lugala Lutheran Hospital and save underweight newborns´ lives! 

Carin Balfe Arbman joins EWB-SWE as Head of Communication

Engineers Without Borders Sweden is proud to announce the newest addition to our team: Carin Balfe Arbman, who joins as Head of Communication. Beyond her primary role in communications, Carin will also be coordinating our local groups across Sweden. This dual responsibility highlights our commitment to strengthening the national engineering community's connections and collaborations.

Secretary General, Caroline Edelstam, shared her thoughts on the appointment: "Carin's vast experience not only in communication but also in the tech and start-up sectors, as well as non-profit organizations, is very valuable. We believe her unique perspective and skills will play a crucial role in expanding our reach and driving our mission forward."

Carin’s latest position was as National Communications Manager for the Swedish youth organisation Fryshuset. And she previously worked as Communications Manager for the Swedish Ag-tech and innovation company Plantagon International.

This is a significant step for Engineers Without Borders Sweden as we continue our journey in promoting engineering as a tool for positive change, emphasizing its role in sustainability, foreign aid, and engineering education. Join us in welcoming Carin to EWB-SWE!

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Greetings from our Secretary General!

Caroline is the newest addition to the management team of EWB-SWE. Join us as we reflect with her on the first months with us and most importantly what is the pipeline for the rest of the year for the organization.

>Two months on the job. What are your initial thoughts and how has it been so far?

It has been two very interesting months in learning more about the organization, its supporters and all the important work EWB-SWE conducts and the actual impact the organization has for communities in need. The incredible, warm spirit of everyone volunteering and committing to all our work and projects is very inspiring, how we together can work for a better and more sustainable future. Further, it has been very interesting to discover all designs and creative solutions to real-world problems and sustainable development projects that are innovative and community centered.

>What are the plans for the fall and beyond?

After the summer will be quite exciting for all of us at EWB-SWE as we will present a new strategy for our international projects and continue to push projects that have been active or moving at slow speed following the pandemic. We are keeping a strong focus on fundraising so we can contribute more to our projects and we are already starting planning for upcoming campaigns - “Giving Tuesday '' on November 28th and year-end giving around Christmas Campaign. We are also working to launch a new feature for everyone willing to make their support last with monthly donations.

Our important work with Missing Maps continues and we will be back with more news on our upcoming mapathon after the summer holidays. Another exciting news is the launch of “Meet our Partners”, a series of interviews with our partners to talk about our collaboration and achievements together.

Last but not least, we will start in October the third edition of our Connect Mentorship Program in collaboration with our main partner Sandvik that aims at sharing knowledge and increasing insight about both organizations through pairing between their Global Graduates and our local groups. 

>Anything else?

Yes! EWB-SWE is now a proud member of The West Sweden Chamber of Commerce, a privat and politically neutral organization working to strengthen the region's business community. This collaboration gives us a wonderful opportunity to work with integration and sustainability in the region.

And I look forward to working with all of you and wish you a happy summer!

// Caroline Edelstam

Bangladesh: addressing health and water quality issues

About 25 million people in Bangladesh do not have access to clean drinking water and 40% of the population is affected by health issues caused by dirty water while it is the first cause of death among children. The village of Goaldihi experiences a similar situation to the rest of the country with a stressed water situation and a population suffering from many illnesses such as diarrhea assumed to be linked to poor quality water consumption and even leading to some deaths.

Pre-study

Previous tests in the village revealed the presence of a coliform bacteria E-coli in the wells confirming that water is the rooting cause of the health issues that also increase significantly during the monsoon as mosquitos and other bacteria thrive in these conditions. With a lack of knowledge of the current water situation in the village, further information was required to be able to address the health and water quality issues in the best way for the population.

Between 2020-2023 EWB-SWE conducted a pre-study to find the main issues of water contamination and to find potential solutions for the problems in hand. After months of planning, water quality tests, surveys and more, the project team has now been able to point out the main issues to the water contamination and sanitation issues as well, and suggest solutions that are economically feasible to increase the quality of the drinking water.

Issues and solutions

One of the first causes to water contamination identified is animal waste runoffs as the terrain is flat and part of riverine is flood plains. Another cause is the proximity of the tube wells next to pit latrines. Our survey data also shows a very high-water table of 2.5 meters. This is disadvantageous as the minimum vertical distance between the bottom of latrine pits and the water table should be at least 2 meters.

Based on this analysis, the project team has evaluated and proposed two different solutions for safe drinking water (raised deep tube wells which can be powered by solar cells and ceramic filtration which is an old but effective to purify water), two solutions for safe sanitation (composting toilets and elevated pit latrines), together with a sludge management solution (biogas).

Next step

Based on the survey done by our local partner BRIF with the village as their preferred solution, we will implement the solution consisting of raised deep tube wells with solar cells to supply the village with safe drinking water in the comin months.

We are grateful to our supporters for their funding in this key phase of our project: Vatten och Miljökonsulterna AB, HVR Water purification AB as well as everyone that participated in Marcus Nilsson´s fundraising campaign. We  also extend a special thanks to all the volunteers donating their time and expertise toward this project.