The hidden strengths of unloved concrete

Almost 20 years back, poor families in Coahuila state in Mexico were offered an abnormal present from a social program called Piso Firme. It was not a place at school, an immunization, sustenance, or even cash. It was $150 (£118) worth of prepared blended cement.

Specialists would drive solid blenders through poor neighborhoods, stop outside a home, and pour the porridge-like blend through the entryway, directly into the family room.

They demonstrated to the inhabitants generally accepted methods to spread and smooth the gloop, and ensured they knew to what extent to abandon it to dry. At that point they drove off to the following house.

Piso Firme signifies "firm floor", and when market analysts concentrated the program, they found that the prepared blended cement significantly enhanced youngsters' instruction.