In April 2020, Tropical Cyclone Harold struck and caused widespread destruction in Vanuatu.

Article based on Information provided by PDG Lindsay Ford, Rotary Club of Norfolk Island and Chair D9910 Vanuatu Projects Committee

Two months later the Santo Rotary Club was approached by Lycee de Luganville to assist in repairing the School Library. The roof had been completely shredded out by the category 5 Tropical Cyclone Harold. 

The building and all contents were not useable. Computers and Hardware were saved, but students were not able to assess the internet or reference information materials from the Library. The request for assistance from Santo Rotary, was forwarded to Rotary District 9910 by Santo Rotarian Rexton Langon, who is Chairman of School Conseil and Commander in Chief of Police in Sanma Province.

Thanks to Past Governor and Chair of D9910 Vanuatu Projects, Lindsay Ford, a Disaster Response Grant of US$25,000 from The Rotary Foundation, was secured to repair and refurbish the Library of the Lycée de Luganville, the largest secondary school in Santo for French speaking Ni-Vanuatu with a student population of over 700.

The Disaster Response Grant funds were used to purchase materials, timber, metal roofing, new windows, doors, paint, water tank, wash station (directly alimented by rainwater catchment) to comply with COVID-19 regulations.

Material was delivered by mid-December 2021 with the renovation work being carried out by School Maintenance staff, Community helpers and Rotarians.

Repair work ceased during Christmas and New Year Break and resumed in January 2022. The library recovery project was completed by the end of February 2022. However, Covid Alert level 3 didn’t allow for an Official Opening Ceremony until the 13th May 2022.

The Rotary Foundation Disaster Response Grant has enabled the students to continue to gain access to quality education with long term benefits for Vanuatu