“Musa Ćazim Ćatić” Primary School from Sarajevo 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 apertures replacement, installation of radiator valves with thermostatic heads, installation of equipment for measuring energy consumption and equipment for monitoring temperature and humidity, 455.782 BAM (with VAT) was invested.
As the aim of the project is not only investment in energy efficiency measures, but also 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 on this building has been finished in 2016 and through a brief interview, the director of the school, Mr. Esad Ćatović talks about the importance of the implemented work, as well as the reactions of the employees, students and parents.
- What are the main problems that the primary school “Musa Ćazim Ćatić” Zenica faced in terms of energy consumption?
Esad Ćorović: The problems we faced were extremely old heat pipes and radiators. They were so old they would often crack, causing the suspension of heating and damage to flooring.
- 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?
Esad Ćorović: In our school, within the energy efficiency project, a calorimeter was installed on the substation as well as the valves for regulating the radiators. Implementation of these measures has been very important for pupils and school workers.
- 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?
Esad Ćorović: With the implementation of the energy efficiency project, savings are significant. In our central school, savings are up to 30%.
- What are the reactions of students and parents – are they satisfied with the work done and do they feel concrete improvements?
Esad Ćorović: We are satisfied with the work of the project implementation unit. The responses of students and parents are positive. They often emphasize their satisfaction with both the outward appearance of the school and the internal mechanisms.
- Within the BEEP project, Beepster educational workshops have been organized in Your school. How much do you think children are learning about energy efficiency in class? Do You think the curriculum provides enough information? What kind of education can help raising their awareness and making their behaviour more energy efficient?
Esad Ćorović: In certain classes, within the curriculum and extracurricular activities, students are educated on energy issues. However, I believe that education of students could be even better through organizing workshops, presenting video material, forming student teams for recording the effects of energy efficiency and similar.