Partnerships pave the way for improved school sanitation

Helene Van Rhijn Primary School inaugurated a new toilet block and commemorated the Day of the African Child in Lüderitz on Friday.

School board chairperson Dr Mishael Diabuna said the need to improve sanitation facilities and create a safer environment for junior primary learners was identified in October 2024.

"Recognising the importance of learner wellbeing, we initiated a project to construct suitable facilities," he said.

Letters requesting sponsorship were sent to several companies, four of which responded positively.

Bricks and Blocks donated bricks and building sand, Alma Marine provided cement, Nest Hotel supplied doors, and Wheels to Heaven contributed paint and transported construction materials.

School staff also organised fundraising activities to supplement resources. The project was completed at a cost of N$96,258.25, including labour costs.

"Each contribution played a vital role in moving the project forward. Construction was carried out step by step through strong collaboration between sponsors, staff and the school community," Diabuna said.

He said the completed project provides a healthier and safer learning environment for junior primary learners.

ǁKharas Regional Director of Education Nicolaas Eiman urged learners to take care of the new facilities.

"These toilets are much more than a building and must serve many children for years to come. They are a sign that people care about you. They show that your health, dignity and future matter," he said.

Eiman said learner outcomes and institutional development were closely linked.

"Society cannot expect learners to reach their full potential if their basic health and safety needs are not met. These facilities improve health, dignity and the overall learning environment for our youngest learners, allowing them to focus on their studies without the challenges associated with poor sanitation," he said.

School principal Esmeralda Cloete said the new toilet block represented progress and the school's commitment to providing a safe and healthy learning environment.

"We extend our sincere appreciation to all partners, sponsors, community members and stakeholders whose support made this project possible," she said.

Sister Julia Ashipla of the Ministry of Health and Social Services reminded learners of the importance of good hygiene.

"A clean body is a healthy body," she said.

Ashipla said many children across Africa continued to suffer from illnesses linked to inadequate access to clean water and sanitation.

"Diarrhoeal diseases, which are largely preventable, remain a leading cause of child mortality. Poor hygiene practices further worsen the problem, increasing the risk of infections and other health complications.

"The ministry is working on programmes aimed at improving access to clean water, sanitation facilities and hygiene practices in communities across the country," she said.