Improve Basic Education for 500 Zambian Children

In Zambia, access to sanitation facilities in schools is a critical issue with far-reaching implications for the health, education, and overall well-being of students. 

Adequate sanitation facilities are essential for maintaining good health and hygiene among students. If the access to clean water and proper sanitation is limited, it will lead to a heightened risk of waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and parasitic infections. Without access to an adequate number of clean and safe toilets, students may resort to unsanitary practices, putting their health and the health of their peers at risk. This not only affects their physical well-being but also hampers their ability to fully engage in school activities and learning.

Furthermore, the absence of sanitation facilities can have a significant impact on school attendance and academic performance. When students do not have access to toilets at school, they may be forced to stay home or leave school early to attend to their hygiene needs. This absenteeism can lead to missed learning opportunities and hinder academic progress. Thus, access to proper sanitation facilities is not just a matter of convenience but directly affects educational outcomes.

At Katulumba Community School, the primary concern revolves around its overcrowded conditions and absence of basic hygiene standards. This circumstance undermines the quality of education that children aspire to and deserve and also poses a continuous risk to their health, given that the ratio of latrines to students is 1 to 60, significantly lower than the recommended ratio of 1 to 15. To tackle this challenge, the project aims to construct an additional 18 latrines, thereby bringing the school up to national sanitary standards.

In conclusion, access to sanitation facilities at school is not just a matter of convenience; it is a fundamental right that directly impacts the health, dignity, and educational opportunities of these children. By prioritizing investments in sanitation infrastructure and hygiene education, in Siavonga (Zambia) a safer, healthier, and more inclusive learning environment for students can be created.