Overview
In 2025, Hurricane Melissa caused widespread damage across Jamaica, significantly impacting educational infrastructure. Among those affected was Petersfield Primary and High School, located in Petersfield, Westmoreland, which serves approximately 2,500 students. Hurricane Melissa left the schools with limited laboratory and learning spaces, creating a need for educational facilities to support students’ continued learning. In response, EWB-UConn has partnered with the Vergnano Institute for Impact, Pratt Scholars, Cigna Scholars, and Belimo Scholars to support the school.
The project focuses on converting a shipping container into a functional STEM laboratory to provide students with a dedicated space for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education. By repurposing a shipping container, EWB-UConn aims to create a resilient learning environment that can support students and expand access to STEM opportunities within the community.
Current Work
The EWB-UConn project team and our partners are working to finalize the design and implementation plan for the STEM laboratory. The laboratory is being designed to serve K-12 students and provide various hands-on learning opportunities. Planned laboratory resources include chemistry equipment and educational materials that will support classroom instruction and experiments.
The EWB-UConn project team is developing floor plans and interior layouts to maximize the functionality of the shipping container. Current design efforts focus on integrating key building systems, including a solar power system to provide sustainable energy and an HVAC system to ensure a safe and comfortable learning environment.
EWB-UConn is actively seeking sponsors and additional external support for the project to help fund the construction, laboratory equipment, and implementation of the project. Once construction is complete on the UConn Storrs campus, the laboratory will be transported to the Petersfield Primary and High School for installation. The project is currently targeting completion by December 2026, with ongoing collaboration between EWB-UConn, Institute for Impact, Pratt Scholars, Cigna Scholars, and Belimo Scholars to ensure the laboratory meets the educational needs of the Petersfield community.