Info about the School Toilet Construction (Tanzania) 2
In Tanzania primary education is free. However, due to budget difficulties, school communities are forced to take on the burden of providing a quality learning environment. This can prove a great challenge for communities already plagued by poverty. The 316 students of a village Primary School in Tanzania are the victims of such budgetary challenges. The lack of kitchen facilities and maintenance personnel put a large burden on the health and learning of the students.
However, the greatest threat to the learning environment and health of those at the Primary School is the unavailability of proper toilet facilities. Currently, students and teachers are using a drop toilet made of local, organic materials or are going outside. Both of these practices lead to the spread of several diseases that are spread fecal-orally, including: diarrhea, dysentery, intestinal worms, hepatitis, typhoid, and cholera. Not only is the lack of quality pit latrines detrimental to the students and teachers of the school, but also to the community at large. A very important aspect to consider is the severe effect of the transmission of these diseases among the large population in the community living with impaired immune systems due to poor nutrition and HIV/AIDS.
While the school and community see the building of proper toilet facilities as a priority, the funds and materials have remained out of reach. Procuring funds through the Partnership Program will improve the health of the villagers as well as teach the community at large the importance of proper sanitation.
