Soldiers restore school building

By Spc. Amie J. McMillan, 42nd Military Police Brigade

CAMP BUCCA, Iraq — What would it be like to go to school without the luxury of air conditioning in the heat of summer or without doors for classrooms to shield from distractions? Many students in Iraq face this every day.

But, with the help of some Fort Lewis-based Soldiers and others, this problem is being addressed.

Both Iraqis and coalition forces believed the Abi Ferras Primary School in Umm Qasr, Iraq was in grave need of improvements. After careful planning, resourcing and installation of new equipment, the school is again ready for students to attend in early September.

“Previous to the restoration, windows were missing; paint was peeling from the cracked walls; the desks were severely damaged; plumbing and electricity were inoperable; there were no chalkboards; and the classroom doors were in pieces,” said Sgt. Adam L. Kirschner, of the 42nd Military Police Brigade, Task Force Bucca Civil Affairs Office.

The Umm Qasr Town Council made a decision to emphasize improving the lives of the children in Umm Qasr by ensuring a quality learning environment while they attend school. The town council requested assistance with the refurbishment of the Abi Ferras Primary School through the United Kingdom’s Civil and Military Cooperation team from Northport, Umm Qasr. The CIMIC team developed the scope of work in conjunction with the town council, Abdul Karim, headmaster of the Abi Ferras Primary School, and Al Subai Contracting Company.

“We never thought this school would be this beautiful. It helps the spirits of the kids to learn better and look for better futures to serve the country,” said Karim.

Approximately 450 students ranging in ages from 6 to 12 are expected to attend the school in September. The students will have new desks; teachers will have chalkboards; and students will have an improved learning environment. Students will also be able to enjoy playground equipment, a first for the school.

“With new desks and blackboards, the teachers will have the opportunity to maximize the number of students who can be in the classroom at the same time and have a better place to teach lessons,” said Sgt. 1st Class John M. Miller, 42nd MP Bde. According to Kirschner, the results are above and beyond the original plan.

“We’re very happy about the friendship we have with the Americans,” said Majid Talib Muzam, mayor of Umm Qasr. “The most important thing is education, and we have that now thanks to them,” he added.

Without the assistance of the CIMIC team, Umm Qasr Town Council, 42nd Military Police Brigade, al-Subai Contracting Company, headmasters and Multi-National Division Southeast, this project would not have been able to happen. Because the people of Iraq reached out and asked for assistance, the children of Umm Qasr have the chance for a better education.

“As with any project, it’s great to see the Iraqi people taking charge and putting personal effort into the repair and development of their own infrastructure and community,” said Kirschner.

“For me, the best part of our coalition efforts is being able to work with local people and government to help rebuild Iraq while developing lifelong friendships,” he added.