On 28 February 2019, UNAMID peacekeepers from Pakistan, handed over 4 Solar panel systems along with electrical accessories such as batteries, wires, bulbs, holders, connectors and switches to 3 Quranic Schools (Muhammad Adam Abdullah, Adam Muhammad Ali, Sabir Habib) and 1 educational center (Muhammad Abdul Latif) which are devoid of electricity. These 4 educational institutions are located near the Gathering Site for the internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Sortony, North Darfur.

Lt Col Ishtiaq Ahmad, commnding officer Pakbatt-7 with the Pakistani Contingent based in Sortony Team Site, observed that during patrols in the area, students at these centers were using light of the firewood to study, a practice that not only creates additional expenditure to the impoverished community but also exposes the students to health hazards by inhaling smoke. Following that observation, members of the Pakistan Battalion carried out a survey, in conjunction with the teachers and locals at Sortony Gathering Site, to clearly identify the problem and take remedial measures. As a result, the 4 beneficiary educational centers were identified as the most in need. The Pakistani Contingent immediately mobilized resources and acquired the solar panel and accessories.

Representing the Sheikhs of the 3 Quranic Schools and the education center, Mr. Muhammad Abdul Latif, expressed his sincere gratitude to the Pakistani peacekeepers for this bold step taken to empower self-sustenance in daily management of lively hood resources.

The solar project is part of the Mission’s societal initiatives aimed at supporting local communities in Darfur, as electricity is not immediately available to residents of the IDP Camp that is adjacent to Sortony Team Site, north Darfur, Sudan.