The Unexpected Heroes of Education in Uganda
Clean Water and Sanitation
In the heart of Uganda, a quiet revolution is taking place in schools across the country. The heroes of this revolution? Clean water and … toilets. These basic necessities, often taken for granted in many parts of the world, are proving to be the crucial back-to-school supplies that many Ugandan children desperately need. Thanks to the generous support of donors like you, Acts for Water is making a significant splash in education, health, and community development.
Back to School Nearly Flushed Away
Just a few months ago, a school in Uganda was on the verge of shutting its doors permanently. The culprit? Poor sanitary conditions that threatened the health and well-being of its students. Today, the story is dramatically different.
“The only reason the school is currently open for these girls and boys is because of these new toilets,” says Headteacher Bukazi.
This transformation isn’t just a drop in the bucket. Across our project areas, we’re seeing the profound impact that clean water and safe toilets can have on education in Acts for Water areas of work in Uganda:
- School attendance has increased by over 24% in some areas
- 669 children are back in school, thanks to the gift of water and toilets
- Handwashing rates have skyrocketed from a mere 0.8% to an impressive 84%
"The only reason the school is currently open for these girls and boys is because of these new toilets."
Headteacher Bukazi
Innovation With a Tap and a Mirror
Sometimes, the simplest innovations can lead to the most significant changes. By installing a tap and a mirror outside the toilets, we’ve tapped into children’s natural curiosity and playfulness. Kids are now eager to wash their hands, drawn by the novelty of seeing their reflections in the shiny mirror and the fun of using the new tap. This simple yet effective setup is playing a crucial role in promoting hygiene and flushing the spread of diseases away.
National Recognition
The success of these initiatives hasn’t gone unnoticed. In a remarkable turn of events, the Federal Government of Uganda showcased Acts’ innovative approach during World Water Day celebrations in March. This national platform has allowed our simple yet effective solutions to inspire other local builders and organizations, potentially multiplying our impact across the country.
While we celebrate these successes, we’re acutely aware that our work is far from over. Many schools and communities in Uganda still lack access to clean water and proper sanitation. But with your continued support, we can keep this momentum flowing.
Every tap installed, every toilet built, and every child returning to school represents a step towards a brighter future for Uganda. Your generosity isn’t just providing water and sanitation – it’s unlocking potential, fostering dreams, and building the foundation for thriving communities.
You can help keep more schools open
You can be part of this transformation by supporting our dedicated partners on the ground in Uganda. Donating to Acts for Water is a highly effective way to make a difference, as we collaborate directly with local communities and organizations.
Our approach emphasizes partnership, ensuring resources are used efficiently and create sustainable impact. When you support Acts for Water, you’re not just giving aid – you’re empowering Ugandans to build lasting positive change in their own communities.