Giving Update: Isulu Primary School

It has now been a year since the installation of the WaSH projects at Isulu Primary School. From a recent field visit, we heard the following story from our Field Officer Mary Afandi:

"When I [first] came to Isulu Primary School they had no water and enough latrines. Most of the latrines were in poor condition, thus posing as [a] hazard to the school community. The toilets were not enough for the school community. The pupils used to carry water from their respective homes to school. The water was used for cooking and cleaning."

"After the completion of the WaSH projects, the school now has access to clean, safe, and quality water. This saves the children valuable time and enables them to concentrate on the studies. There is no queuing at the toilet during break and lunchtime. The handwashing facilities make it possible for the students to wash their hands after visiting the toilets."

During this same visit, our team had the chance to catch up with Deputy Head Teacher Mrs. Mary Asatsa, who reflected on the changes she has seen in her school over the last year thanks to the WaSH projects.

Deputy Head Teacher Mrs. Mary Asatsa with Field Officer Mary Afandi and student Noreen Shiviriti at the rain tank

"Initially the pupils used [to] bring water from their various homes. This was very risky to human health," said Mrs. Asatsa.

"The pupils and staff are very happy because they are now accessing safe and clean water. There is a remarkable improvement in academic performance at the school. The toilets have reduced congestion when the pupils want to use them."

Mrs. Asatsa points to running water from the rain tank

One such pupil is 14-year-old Noreen Shiviriti, who was all smiles the day we spoke with her in front of the rain tank.

"After construction of the water tank, we do not carry water from home. We are now accessing safe and clean water. The WaSH facilities have resulted in creating more time for studies, leading to improved performance. Thank you so much...for providing these facilities to the school," Noreen said.

Noreen reaches for the overflow pipe of the rain tank