“Hamdija Kresevljakovic” Primary School from Kakanj is one of the educational institutions on whose facility energy efficiency measures were implemented as a part of the BEEP project (B&H Energy Efficiency Project). Through measures such as thermal insulation, apertures replacement, installation of thermostatic valves and improvement of central heating system, 332.627 (with VAT) was invested.
As the aim of the project is not only investments in energy efficiency measures, but also in raising awareness of the topic, educational and entertaining workshops are organized within the project. The main character of these workshops is the super hero Beepster, who comes from another planet to convey a message about the importance of energy efficiency to students. Thus, students have the opportunity to learn about the importance of the topic, but also get practical advice in a fun way.
Renovation of this building has been finished in 2016 and through a brief interview, the director of the school, Mrs. Nedžma Buza talks about the importance of the implemented work, as well as the reactions of the employees, students and parents after these works.
- What are the main problems that the primary school “Hamdija Kreševljaković” Kakanj faced in terms of energy consumption?
Nedžma Buza: The school was built in 1960. And, until the implementation of the project, a very small number of new windows was installed. That is why, in the last years, most of the heat generated during the winter was lost on worn-out carpentry. The school was connected to the city’s hot water line hence no significant drop in temperature inside the facility was felt, but that came with extremely high financial costs. At the annual level, for the consumption of thermal energy, the funds amounted to cca 75.000,00 BAM.
- What works were implemented in Your school as a part of the Beep Project and what is the importance of the implemented measures for students and employees?
Nedžma Buza: Within the BEEP project the following works were carried out:
– Thermal insulation of the exterior walls of the building
– Heat insulation of the roof of the building
– Replacement of the apperatures on the object
– Improvement of the central heating system
The significance of implemented measures is immeasurable. The goals of the project have been achieved: saving energy and saving financial resources for energy consumption. At the same time, the teaching process is now done under completely different, better conditions. The school got a new look, which also satisfied a very important, aesthetic component, both for the appearance of the school itself and its yard, as well as the whole city location.
- In addition to improving the working conditions for students and teachers, did the implementation of energy efficiency measures contribute to cost reduction and financial savings?
Nedžma Buza: After the completion of the project, in the first year alone, the school saved approximately 44.000,00 BAM on the consumption of heat energy. The savings are also measured in the field of electricity. At the same time, it is important to note that school employees and students are now educated and more responsible when it comes to energy saving.
- What are the reactions of students and parents – are they satisfied with the work done and do they feel concrete improvements?
Nedžma Buza: The school is satisfied with the work of the Federal Ministry of Physical Planning’s Implementation Unit. Through all activities, efforts were made to meet the requirements for the full implementation of the Project’s objectives. Cooperation with school management has been accomplished. There was a very correct, clear and professional climate in communication. The school’s proposals were also considered. There was a very decisive, clear and professional attitude of all the staff of the IU with whom the school was cooperating. Concrete improvements are visible and positively assessed by students and parents, as well as the entire local community.
- Within the BEEP project, Beepster educational workshops have been organized in your school. How much are children learning about energy efficiency in class? Do you think their curriculum provides enough information? What kind of education can help to raise their awareness and to make their behavior more energy efficient?
Nedžma Buza: The curriculum includes some lessons on energy efficiency, however it does not provide sufficient information. As users of this very important project, we are making efforts to educate pupils and employees in order to save and preserve everything we get.