Shikhondi Girls Secondary School

There have been great changes in the sanitation practices at Shikhondi Girls Secondary School ever since the implementation of their WaSH projects last year. The girls now have enough water to take care of themselves, especially when they are menstruating.

Crowding was once rampant where they used to fetch water because they could all only go at a specific time, and they also shared the river with the villagers. Since the project was implemented, they no longer have to go out of the school compound to get water. In turn, this has also helped them save on academic time and improve performance by spending more time on homework and in class.

The school environment is so clean and everyone you meet and ask about the WaSH facilities gladly expressed their joy and satisfaction. The sanitation teacher Mrs. Conjestar Mutanyi together with the student health club members who were around during the interview promised to continue working together to maintain their rain tank and facilities well.

Mrs. Mutanyi (right) with Field Officer Laura Alulu at the rain tank

"The tank is strategically placed, it serves both the students, teachers and other staff like the cooks comfortably since they can reach the water point without interfering with anybody. It has also improved on sanitation practices especially during their monthly periods they can go clean themselves in case they get dirty," said sanitation teacher Mrs. Conjestar Mutanyi.

Field Officer Laura Alulu with student Trinix Shikanga

One student, 17-year-old Trinix Shikanga, shared with us how these projects have impacted her experience as a learner at Shikhondi Girls Secondary School.

"In the past year, our lives have really changed," Trinix said.

"Initially we used to have few classes. Right now, we have many and permanent buildings that [are] required to be cleaned at least daily with soap and water. We now do [the] cleaning without straining to go and fetch water in the river, [and] again girls are normally associated with cleanliness, so we feel so [very] happy with this project in our school. We also have enough toilets and this has improved on privacy."

School cook Mrs. Hilda Ayodi with students at the rain tank