Community-Based Strategies and Support for Improving the Sustainability of School Infrastracture Projects in Chibombo: A Case of BUILD IT International

Abstract

This study investigated community-based strategies and support mechanisms for improving the sustainability of school infrastructure projects implemented by Build It International (BII) in Chibombo District, Zambia. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study examined community engagement strategies, support mechanisms, and the influence of local governance structures on project sustainability. Data was collected through surveys of 62 Parent Teacher Committee members, interviews with 11 key informants, and two focus group discussions across four schools: Kamaila, Katole, Machaya, and Mwachisompola Primary Schools. The study findings revealed that community engagement through Parent-Teacher Committees (PTCs) fostered local ownership through parents being involved in the planning and participating in some of the project activities such as clearing of construction sites, digging on foundations, and participating in the maintenance of projects, challenges persisted in maintaining consistent participation and integrating community input into decision-making processes. BII's capacity-building initiatives, particularly maintenance training, were effective but lacked sustained follow-up support. The study identified significant barriers including limited financial resources, inadequate policy frameworks, and inconsistent community participation following the implementation of free education policy. Key recommendations include strengthening participatory planning processes, expanding training programs with ongoing mentorship, developing sustainable funding models through income-generating activities, and enhancing alignment between community-driven projects and national education policies. The study emphasizes the need for structured monitoring systems and regular technical support to ensure long term infrastructure sustainability. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing context-specific insights into community-based infrastructure sustainability in rural Zambia, particularly highlighting the interplay between community engagement, capacity building, and governance structures. The findings suggest that successful infrastructure sustainability requires a comprehensive approach integrating community participation sustainable construction techniques, and robust post-construction support mechanism.