Australia partners with UNICEF to launch WASH for schools in CIP

Sponsored Advertisement

Australia, in partnership with UNICEF, has launched the SBD 18 million WASH in Schools (WinS) Project at Bokolonga Primary School, to enhance water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities in 30 schools in Central Province.

Implemented by UNICEF, the Project is designed to improve health, hygiene, and educational outcomes for approximately 5,000 students and teachers.

Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, highlighted the significance of the project.

“This project is a testament to the strong partnership between Australia and the Solomon Islands,” the High Commissioner said.

“It will ensure students have access to safe drinking water and comfortable hygiene facilities.”

“With the lack of WASH facilities in schools contributing to high absenteeism rates, particularly among female students, we know how important these facilities are.”

“They help keep girls in school for longer, provide safer and happier learning experiences, and ultimately lead to better long-term education and health outcomes.”

Julian Lilo, Director of School Services at the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD), was enthusiastic about the partnership.

“MEHRD is pleased to collaborate with UNICEF and DFAT on this transformative project,” said Mr Lilo.

“Together, we are bolstering resilience in school infrastructure and fostering a culture of hygiene and health among our school communities.”

Central Province faces significant challenges accessing clean water, adequate sanitation facilities, and hygiene in schools, with only 12 per cent of the population having access to WASH facilities. Schools were selected for the project based on need, in consultation with MEHRD.

Benjamin Grubb, Chief of Office at UNICEF Solomon Islands, emphasised the impact of the initiative.

“It marks a significant stride towards ensuring every child in the Solomon Islands has the opportunity to thrive,” Mr Grubb said.

By improving WASH facilities in 30 schools, we are laying a strong foundation for their health and education.”Toilet block designs will include changing areas and showers for girls, and separate facilities for boys and girls for privacy.

The Project includes constructing bathrooms, handwashing stations, deep water boreholes, spring catchment areas, and rainwater harvesting systems.

Additionally, tap water stands, water storage tanks, and solar-powered water pumps will be installed.

School committees will receive training to maintain the new WASH facilities.

Construction will begin in mid-2024 and is expected to be completed by 2026.

Sponsored Advertisement

ENDS///….