BASF BUILDS CENTRE TO HELP KARENS

       BASF, a global chemical company, will provide Bt3.7 million to the Karen Kids Society to construct a youth centre for young adults in Ban Pa Deng, Petchaburi province.
       The contribution, provided via the BASF Social Foundation, is aimed at improving the standard of living of local residents.
       The Karen Kids Youth Centre will provide educational opportunities for young adults from the ethnic minority along with Thai residents, focusing on income generating activities such as handicraft skills.
       The centre will also provide separate living and sanitation facilities. The construction of the 390-square-metre centre began last month and should be completed by the middle of next year.
       Karen Kids Society president and founder Juergen Strafe said: "When we first discovered the children, they were living in a rat- and insect-infested hovel with a leaking roof.
       "The dirt and smell were unimaginable. Today, they enjoy clean, healthy accommodation, with proper sanitation, freshly laundered bedding and a hygienic kitchen.
       "The next step is to build a youth centre where older kids can learn a trade. Within a few years, they will be able to leave the camp and make a life for themselves using these new skills."
       To Pracha Chivaporntip, chairman and managing director of the BASF Group in Thailand, the project in Ban Pa Deng is one of many the company has sponsored over the years as part of its sustainable development efforts.
       With its existing education centre, Karen Kids provides shelter, education, clothing and food to more than 80 children aged 10 months to 14 years now living as displaced persons.
       With a three-pronged plan focusing on education, health and self-reliance, the centre provides a place to meet, play, and study.
       It also provides "child safe" Internet access. Each Saturday, the camp offers Thai-and English-language classes for children and adults.
       A vaccination schedule is maintained, and children will be taught ways to improve their immune system.
       A weaving programme, vegetable garden and a fishpond.
       The first phase of the construction, together with a sleeping area for volunteers and camp managers, was completed last year.
       Its second phase, with a two storey centre, will include training facilities for sewing, weaving and carpentry.