Technical training for basic village services project engineers

The planning and implementation of the technical component are summarized in this report. The WASH component focused on three major areas - water supply (with particular stress on the impact of the high groundwater table), sewerage, and maintenance. A participant-centered learning approach featured the use of lecture/discussions, task groups, and a 10-day U.S. field trip to a water hyacinth plant in San Diego, a maintenance program in Phoenix, and a deltaic water supply and sewerage system construction site in New Orleans. Trainee assessments of the program were mixed: the methodology, maintenance section, and visits to Phoenix and New Orleans were rated highly; the groundwater and sewerage training and the San Diego visit were considered less useful. The trainers recommend: a follow-up visit to provide participants with on-site consultation; integration of technical and management training in future courses; and a pre-course needs assessment by a training staff member in Egypt to ensure course relevance. Appendices include materials for interviewing and briefing workshop participants and a list of basic references. (Author abstract, modified)