The Epule Project
Project Proposal OverviewThe Epule Education Centre is a community development initiative by YWAM Pacific Waves, Australian Mercy, and The Presbyterian Church of Vanuatu. Located on the North-East coast of Efate Island, Vanuatu, the centre aims to provide discipleship, recreation, and training services to the nearby Onesua Presbyterian College, which serves 500 students, as well as neighboring villages and communities across Vanuatu.
Vision
To empower youth and families for a healthier, more sustainable community.
Mission
We aim to transform lives and strengthen communities by:
- Equipping youth with leadership training and life skills.
- Providing quality skills training to enhance livelihoods.
- Fostering personal development to improve employability.
- Establishing a vibrant youth centre/café for creativity and community involvement.
- Promoting healthy lifestyles through sports programs.
- Integrating primary health care into all initiatives to address physical and mental well-being.
- Addressing addictive behaviors by offering support and resources for those seeking recovery and new life.
- Enhancing cultural awareness through international experiences and exchanges.
- Offering outdoor education for leadership development.
History
The Epule property, once Onesua Presbyterian Technical College, was a vocational training center until Cyclone Pam in 2015 led to its closure. We seek to revitalize this site to serve the community’s educational and vocational needs.
Purpose of the Project
Vanuatu faces challenges such as natural disasters, climate change, family violence, and unemployment. The Epule Education Centre will offer programs to address these issues, support youth and families, and foster resilience against addictive behaviors. The centre will also benefit the nearby school and surrounding communities by providing accessible resources and opportunities for personal and professional development. Additionally, it aims to serve as a model for Efate Island and Vanuatu as a whole, showcasing sustainable practices and innovative solutions that can be replicated across the nation.
Project Partners
- PCVEA Education: A key partner in supporting educational initiatives.
- YWAM Pacific Waves: Focuses on community development.
- Australian Mercy: Supports sustainable development in Vanuatu.
- Various YWAM branches: Provide training and resources.
- Individual and business sponsors: Seeking partnerships from the community and sports sectors.
Project Team
The team includes representatives from partner organizations, architects, building professionals, volunteers, and donors, all committed to culturally inspired designs and sustainable practices.
Stage 1 Objectives
Our first priority is securing a vehicle for essential transportation needs, particularly for:
- Transporting Equipment and Materials: Required for building renovations and construction activities.
- Emergency Situations: Ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals, allowing for quick response to any emergencies that may arise in this remote location.
In addition to the vehicle, other critical requirements include:
- Solar Power Installation: To ensure sustainable energy.
- Water Supply System: To provide clean water.
- Renovation of Existing Buildings: Including staff housing and classrooms.
- Construction of a Meeting Nakamal: For community gatherings.
- Sports Facilities: To promote health and recreation, including:
- Rugby and football fields
- Volleyball and basketball courts
- Surfing and skating facilities
- A gym to enhance fitness opportunities
- Coaching programs
- Youth Centre/Café: A space for social interaction and learning that will sustainably feed funds back into the project, supporting ongoing initiatives and maintenance.
- Kitchen Equipment: Including white goods like a solar freezer, cooking appliances, and storage facilities to support food preparation for the centre.
- Farming Activities: Including a small farm and chicken coop for local food security.
- Biogas System: To convert waste into energy sustainably.
- Outdoor Education Programs: For leadership development.
- Student Sponsorship Programs: To support youth education.
These projects, including the biogas system, solar power installation, and youth centre, will serve as models for other villages and communities, demonstrating sustainable practices and innovative solutions that can be replicated in surrounding areas, as well as across Efate Island and Vanuatu as a nation.
Stage 2 - Objectives
- Looking ahead, we plan to introduce Stage 2, which will include:
- Oceanfront Tourist Bungalows: Designed for eco-friendly accommodation, allowing visitors to enjoy stunning coastal views while generating revenue for the centre.
- Fishing Charters: Providing guests with the opportunity to engage in local fishing experiences, further supporting tourism and community involvement.
- Small Business Projects: Initiatives focused on hospitality and local crafts to feed funds back into the project and support community entrepreneurs.
- Food Services: Leveraging local produce to offer fresh meals that highlight regional cuisine and enhance the guest experience.
Progress Update
Our first team from YWAM Canberra has successfully completed the window framing, doors, toilets, and kitchen in one duplex, as well as the windows and doors for the dining hall. This progress marks a significant step forward in our renovation efforts.
For a video report on the progress made by the Canberra team, please check out this video.
Upcoming Mission Builders Teams
We are looking for participants for our next Mission Builders teams scheduled for:
- December 2024
- April 2025
For inquiries about joining these teams, please contact us at [insert contact information].
Completion of these initiatives will allow us to operate training schools and outreach programs that focus on holistic well-being and the prevention of addictive behaviors. The introduction of Stage 2 will enhance our sustainability efforts and community engagement.
Your support for the Education Centre will help establish a transformative resource that empowers future generations in Vanuatu, fostering a community centered on health, recovery, and new life.