Shakira donates $400,000 to rebuild Haiti school

PORT-AU-PRINCE: Colombian pop star Shakira has donated $ 400,000 Thursday to rebuild a school which was severely damaged by the January 2010 earthquake that leveled much of the Haitian capital.

The singer has signed an agreement with the Interamerican Development Bank, which correspond to its contribution to the rebuilding of the school Elie Dubois, one of the oldest island, built in the early 20th century.

"I am delighted to have the opportunity to help you achieve your dream come true," Shakira has spoken of a hundred students and religious schools, speaking in French.

"I want to tell girls from school Elie Dubois you should seize the opportunity for education, she added, saying she was encouraged by the warm reception she received. The star then performed a brief dance.

The nonprofit group Architecture for Humanity will rebuild two of the school buildings, with a completion date of 12 to 14 months from now.

"On behalf of children and the government, I would like to thank the IDB and Shakira for their support to the cause of education," said Joel Desrosiers Education Minister Jean-Pierre.

After the ceremony, some students performed a dance to the music of Shakira, the singer joined them on an improvised stage. (AFP)