SOCIAL ACTION FUND: FROM COMMUNITY INTERVENTIONS TO SOCIAL INNOVATION
RECENT AND SIGNIFICANT PROJECTS
In recent years, the Social Action Fund has expanded its scope to address new social and health challenges affecting local communities. The programme increasingly focuses on sustainability, healthcare, empowerment and community resilience.
Some of the most significant projects currently developed include:
2020–21
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Drainage Improvement
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Construction of drainage channels to reduce flooding and improve sanitation.
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Tree Planting Initiative
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Reforestation activities to promote a cleaner and healthier environment.
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Waste Bins Installation
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Placement of waste bins in public areas to improve waste management.
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Community Wells
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Construction of wells to provide access to clean and safe drinking water.
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2022–23
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National Youth Dialogue
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Promoting youth participation, leadership and civic engagement.
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Clothes Drive Campaign
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Collection and distribution of clothing to support vulnerable families.
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Gender Equality Awareness
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Raising awareness and promoting equality through education and community activities.
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2023–24
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Biogas Project
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Installation of biogas systems to promote clean energy and reduce deforestation.
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Dear Plastic
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Reducing plastic waste through awareness campaigns and community clean-ups.
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Malaria Prevention
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Community education and prevention activities to reduce malaria transmission.
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2024–25
Phase 1
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Solar Lamps
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Distribution of solar lamps to improve access to clean and reliable lighting.
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St. Francis Waste Management I
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Environmental education and waste management initiatives at St. Francis Secondary School.
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Phase 2
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Agriculture & VSLA
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Empowering farmers through Village Savings and Loan Associations and agricultural training.
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St. Francis Waste Management II
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Expansion of the waste management programme with improved practices and student involvement.
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2025–26
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Agric Tech
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Digital agricultural training combining farming practices with FreeCAD design skills.
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Nutritional Household & Livelihood Development
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Improving household nutrition and livelihoods through agriculture and farming training.
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Fish Feed Production
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Local fish feed production to strengthen aquaculture and support fish farmers.
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Sustainable Furniture Production (BEST Furniture)
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Vocational training in sustainable furniture production to build youth skills and entrepreneurship.
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These projects contribute to improving educational opportunities, promoting healthier lifestyles, strengthening healthcare systems and empowering women and young people in Makeni.
IMPACT
Through the Social Action Fund, hundreds of students, professors and community members have participated in projects that combine teaching, research and social action. The programme has become a platform for intercultural exchange and long-term cooperation between Spain and Sierra Leone, reinforcing the commitment of both universities to sustainable development and community transformation.
RECENT AND SIGNIFICANT PROJECTS
The Children's Reading Corner was created to foster literacy, creativity and learning among children in Makeni. The initiative provides access to books, educational materials and safe spaces where children can develop reading habits and strengthen their academic skills. Through collaborative activities, the programme promotes inclusion, imagination and community engagement.
The Skill Training Programme promotes vocational education and practical learning opportunities for young people and women in Makeni. Through workshops and specialised training activities, participants acquire professional skills that contribute to economic independence, entrepreneurship and sustainable local development.
The programme aims to raise awareness about the risks associated with drug abuse and addiction among young people. Through educational campaigns, workshops and community participation, the initiative encourages healthy lifestyles and strengthens social support networks within local communities.
Over the years, the Social Action Fund has evolved from small local interventions into a multidisciplinary platform that connects education, health, research and community engagement, strengthening the partnership between CEU San Pablo University and the University of Makeni.
HISTORICAL PROJECTS
Design and construction of furniture and planters made out of bamboo stickt at St. Joseph School for the Hearing Impaired.
Diseño y construcción de mobiliario y jardineras de bambú para el colegio St. Joseph para niños con discapacidad auditiva.
Activity involving children from local schools that aimed to get an idea about how they perceive their surroundings. Children were asked to draw their neighbourhood, their families and the places they use as playgrounds. It is particularly interesting to see how children deal with such complex ideas in order to get a better understanding on local social dynamics.
In collaboration with Valencia CF, a series of football-related activities were developed during last trip to Makeni. These initiatives included providing Valencia CF jerseys to local teams in Yoni and Ropolon and organizing a football match between Unimak students and CEU representatives.
Design and construction of furniture and planters made out of bamboo stickt at St. Joseph School for the Hearing Impaired.
Diseño y construcción de mobiliario y jardineras de bambú para el colegio St. Joseph para niños con discapacidad auditiva.
