Background and objectives of the student programme

Over the past 15 years, Delft University of Technology students have taken part in research and project activities related to study various water management issues in Bangladesh; particularly the controversial Flood Action Plan (see our 2001 Evaluation Report of the Student Programme).

The idea was triggered by the recognition that in many cases modern technology played an adverse role in the development of the poor. Hosted by local Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), students were given an opportunity get close to operations and processes in development projects from a bottom-up perspective. The objective is in the first place for students to experience a direct confrontation with the situation in developing countries. Secondly, they might come up with creative suggestions for the programme.

Your project and stay

The student programme is now focusing on the arsenic issue and has been linked to a broader action research framework. As a student, you will receive much freedom to figure out how you wish to contribute to these activities. You are expected to pay for your own flights and insurance (there are ususally opportunities for financial support and vaccinations through the university). A monthly fee of 250,- euro 'package deal' will cover all normal expenditures for food, housing, local transport, internet, local supervision, translation and various practical support.

For more information, please download our information folder, or have a look at our publication: Rammelt, C. F. and J. Boes (2004a). Technological Education and Projects in Developing Countries: Possibilities and Constraints. International Conference on Engineering Education in Sustainable Development (EESD2004). D. Ferrer-Balas, K. F. Mulder, J. Bruno and R. Sans. Barcelona, CIMNE and UPC.