Projects for Underserved Communities (PUC) is an innovative new project-based learning curriculum designed to match engineering students with communities overseas needing the skills and resources UT engineers can provide. This two course sequence permits engineering students to work on international projects to directly benefit underserved communities. The first course was offered in fall 2009 with projects in Ghana and Peru executed and completed in June of 2010.
Projects are multidisciplinary including mechanical, electrical, civil, chemical and biomedical engineering. Students enrolled in the PUC classes oversee the project process from initial site selection to fund-raising to planning to completion. The faculty teaching the class mentor the students as they develop these significant professional skills.
This summer, PUC students in partnership with the communities of Patriensa, Ghana and Santa Cruz, Peru successfully implemented water systems designed to bring fresh, potable water to the local schools.
Phase I: Project Assessment
During the Fall semester, students evaluate prospective projects identified by international communities for feasibility, risk, impact and sustainability.
Phase II: Concept Selection and Design
During the Spring semester, students focus on concept selection, design and fundraising. They also lead reconnaissance trips to the communities.
Project Implementation
During the summer, team members travel to their international destinations to implement engineering projects with the help of community members and professional volunteers.
Travel Authorization must be given to students for the Spring Break Trip.
For more information please visit the PUC Web site. Interested in supporting these remarkable students? Go to the PUC donations page.
