A Year Later: "I am now strong and healthy."

Before we installed a high-capacity rain catchment tank at Galong Primary School last year, students carried the burden of fetching water every day - literally.

"Much pressure was put on the students to avail water for use in school," explained 12-year-old student Abigail. "Everywhere you could go, you would always find students carrying jerrycans, either empty or filled with water. One would only be allowed in school after availing a jerrycan filled with clean water. This was our school norm. No water? You will not be allowed to get in school."

But one year later, the students can stroll into school with only their books because water is available on school grounds.

"One is able to access water at any given time of need," Abigail said. "We no longer get pressure from the teacher on duty sending us to go fetch water out of the school compound. As a school, water issues [have] been solved. We only need to take care of [the rain tank] to avoid future breakdown. We have sufficient water for cooking, cleaning, washing hands and also drinking."

Without so much worry about the present, Abigail now looks forward to her future. "We will forever live a healthy life, free from illnesses and other related waterborne diseases. I am now strong and healthy."

Abigail at the tank with teacher Hudson Avala and our field officer.