The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) has successfully handed over fully completed sanitation facilities to four schools in Western Province.
These sanitation facilities (ablution blocks), including separate toilets and showers for boys and girls, were funded by ADRA and implemented through the Turn on the Tap (TOTT) Project.
The schools that benefited from this project are namely Kalaro Primary School (KPS), Nusa Simbo Primary School (NSPS) on Simbo Island, and two schools in the Vonavona Lagoon namely Barasipo Community High School (BCSS) and Rawaki Community High School (RCHS). All four schools are owned and operated by the United Church Education Authority (UCEA).
The handover ceremonies took place on 19 November at Kalaro Primary School, 20 November at Nusa Simbo Primary School in Simbo Island, 21 November at Barasipo Community High School and 22 November at Rawaki Community High School.
The events were attended by Government Ministers from the current Western Provincial Government (WPG), including Hon. Gordon Zebo, Minister for Education, Hon. Kenneth George, Minister for Health and Rural Water Supply, Hon. Redfern Alesina, Minister for Planning, Economic Development, and Aid Project Coordination and United Church Education Authority, given their role as the authority overseeing these schools.
During the handover, Hon. Kenneth George emphasized the importance of sanitation in schools, stated that Sanitation is vital, especially in schools where students’ needs must be met.
‘’The provincial government cannot provide all necessary facilities, so we are grateful for ADRA’s generous support in constructing safe and hygienic facilities for these schools’’
He urged the school administrations to ensure proper maintenance of the facilities.
Jacqueline Turanga, the Education Secretary for the United Church Education Authority, expressed her deep appreciation for ADRA’s efforts, while the principals and headteachers of the beneficiary schools echoed their gratitude.
They highlighted how the new facilities would reduce absenteeism, prevent sanitation-related illnesses, and improve students’ overall well-being.
All principals said that these facilities, students no longer need to use beaches or bushes for open defecation. This marks a significant improvement in their schools’ hygiene standards.
Community members and PTA chairpersons also celebrated the milestone, acknowledging the benefits the facilities bring not only to students but also to the wider community.
TOTT Project Manager, Sharon Kele, highlighted the importance of maintaining the facilities, stating, “Better hygiene creates a better learning environment, contributing to the development of quality students. Sustainability is key to ensuring future students also benefit from these facilities.”
She also commended the collaboration between ADRA, the communities, schools, and contractors for successfully completing the project.
The TOTT Project focuses on partnering with school leaders, education authorities, and provincial service providers to enhance access to potable water, clean and safe toilets, sustainable menstrual supplies, and effective hygiene education in schools. Special emphasis is placed on the needs of girls and children with disabilities, aligning with national standards and guidelines.
By addressing these critical needs, the project aims to foster safe and healthy learning environments, reduce school closure rates, promote good hygiene practices, improve menstrual hygiene management, and strengthen relationships between schools and their communities.
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-ADRA SI Communication
