Giving Update: Bumuyange Primary School

Much has changed at Bumuyange Primary School since the installation of their WaSH facilities last year. On a recent visit, we heard from students and staff how the pupils are now healthier, which means they attend school much more regularly and get better grades overall. Due to the hygiene behavior change, they are much more likely to complete school and pursue opportunities that will help them break the cycle of extreme poverty that has plagued their community for generations.

"Since the tank was constructed, there has been a reduction in the in and out movement in the school. The pupils are now able to settle in class and we have noticed an improvement in the mean score of the upper classes. The pupils are now accessing clean water for drinking without sharing containers or mishandling water from different unknown sources. We have noticed a reduction in diarrhea and a reduction in the spread of HIV from [no longer] sharing drinking water from the same containers," said Head Teacher Mr. Francis Shibira.

Norman Chogo is a 15-year-old student at Bumuyange Primary School, and he shared his perspective on how these WaSH projects have impacted his experience as a learner.

"As a candidate who is about to sit for the national examinations in 2 weeks, I've really enjoyed my last year in this school. I've had enough time to study and I'm looking forward to performing well. I invested the time I used to spend fetching water in studying and revision."

Head Teacher Mr. Shibira and students Irene and Norman with Field Officer Mary Afandi at the rain tank