SOLAR SCHOOL CLUBS
Gone are the days when research was only a lab experience. In an attempt to disseminate information and to gather field observations regarding use of solar lamps, the solar lab at CREEC has partnered together with GIZ Energy Explorerz to establish solar clubs at schools across Uganda. Two clubs have been established so far at Green Valley High School in Kampala and National Teachers’ College-Kaliro in Iganga. A detailed training was held at each school to educate the club members about solar lamps, and fifteen different solar lamps were distributed to the clubs. The clubs rent out the solar lamps to the school community. When the lamps are returned, the users fill out a questionnaire regarding their perspectives of the lamps. In this manner, CREEC collects data that can be used to improve future solar lamp design and quality. This kind of collaboration supports a win-win situation where CREEC gains valuable information regarding real-life use of solar lamps, and the schools gain greater access to solar technology. So far school administrators have been very supportive of the school clubs because they reinforce the practicality of science education and provide benefit to the students through accessibility of solar lamps.
