Water, Engineering, and Chemistry in Ecuador 2023

Discover the technical, political, cultural, economic, health and spiritual issues of clean water access.

Water represents the most fundamental component of human health. Many places globally still need access to clean, reliable water. This course travels to Ecuador and follows the flow of water from source to spigot. Ecuador has rugged Andean Mountain villages and Amazonian rainforest towns that all participate in ongoing projects with Calvin. By partnering with local NGOs, the Clean Water Institute at Calvin and indigenous communities, students will have unfettered access to the life changing power of water. The trip will begin in Quito, the capital of Ecuador, then radiate overland to mountains in the south, jungle to the west and beyond. Take in views from the 6,000+m Chimborazo volcano, the equator, and colonial cathedrals. Come discover the technical, political, cultural, economic, health and spiritual issues of clean water access. Key aspects of this course: • Participate in hands on water supply projects with residents of rural Ecuadorian communities. • Learn about the work of NGO’s whose ministry goal is Christ centered community development. In particular, Life-Giving Water International (www.lifegivingwaterinternational.org) and Codiense focus their community development on clean water supply. • Gather data for ongoing efficacy studies of centralized chlorination in Clean Water Institute of Calvin University (CWICU) projects. • Learn practical engineering skills such as surveying, construction supervision, and plan reading. Participate in construction activities including site, material inspection, record drawings, and field modifications. (Engr 350 credit, see advisor for details). • Learn and practice environmental chemistry lab and analysis skills (Chem 270L credit) • Fulfills core tags (pending)

Cost

$4,380 (exact)

Listed cost includes airfare.

Questions / contact