Could this generation of Haitian students hold the answers to rebuilding Haiti? Mainstream media coverage of Haiti’s disaster, and what should be done in rebuilding, has focused on the usual suspects of talking heads: western academic experts with books on Haiti; government officials past and present; aid organizations with a presence on the island. But, one group missing from the prevailing conversation are the very people who will likely play a large part in the reconstruction of the island nation: Haitian students, both American and those who call Haiti home.

The collective analysis from experts continues to concentrate on the malfeasance of Haiti’s leaders from the past three decades, and the mistakes made by those even further back. But, reexamining Haiti’s past is only part of the equation in moving Haiti forward. As heads of state continue to discuss best practices for aid distribution, these Haitian students –with a first hand perspective– have much to offer in what they feel are key issues in providing better leadership, the role the international community can play post-recovery and in the reconstruction process, and perhaps most importantly what policies can best prevent abuse, corruption and can actually bolster Haiti’s economy, so that it can once again be a player on the global marketplace.

For more in-depth analysis from a variety of experts, please check out:

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Many feel a call to volunteer as the images of catastrophe continue to make their way off the island. Here is what one experienced emergency paramedic lived in the week of the aftermath.

This photo is courtesy of the Associated Press of Doctors Without Borders.

Nearly 45,000 Americans lived in Haiti, until the catastrophic earthquake two weeks ago. And, Haitian-Americans are still being flown home, however, not always by choice. The U.S. State Dept. implemented an evacuation of all U.S. passport holders. The many who are relieved to end their ordeal, coming home, first means being repatriated. These are some first thoughts when they touched down stateside, 11 days after the earthquake.