Over the past year, we have successfully implemented and maintained clean drinking water equipment at two primary schools, ensuring access to safe drinking water for students, teachers, and the surrounding community. The initiative provides a vital solution in rural areas where many students cannot afford to buy bottled water, often relying on unsafe sources like home containers or well water, which can cause illnesses such as stomach infections and diarrhea.
Our support included providing water towers and equipment that purify groundwater into safe drinking water. The impact of this project extends beyond the schools, as teachers, students, and villagers benefit from the clean water, with some even bringing it home for personal use. This access has greatly improved health outcomes, reduced illness-related absences, and enhanced overall attendance and performance in class.
A significant challenge has been the high cost of replacing spare parts for the equipment, which often exceeds the schools’ limited budgets. Without adequate funding, broken parts are left unrepaired, risking the sustainability of the system. To address this, we have established a cost-sharing agreement, where we cover 50% of replacement costs. This partnership ensures that the schools can maintain the equipment and continue providing clean water.
This project has directly benefited nearly 2,000 students, 70 teachers, and numerous community members. By fostering good health, the initiative has had a profound effect on students’ ability to attend classes regularly and achieve better educational outcomes. We are proud to collaborate with these schools to uphold water quality and ensure long-term access to safe drinking water.