Global Handwashing Day: How Safe Water Is Making a Difference at School

Every day, handwashing helps protect children from illness, keeping them healthy, confident and ready to learn. This Global Handwashing Day, we’re celebrating the impact that access to safe water, sanitation and handwashing facilities can have on students and teachers. 

At Likuma Primary School in Zambia, 617 students and 13 teachers now have access to facilities that support health and learning.  

The benefits are already being felt across the school community. 

Cases of diarrhoea have reduced since handwashing facilities were introduced, helping students stay healthier and spend more time in the classroom. Access to toilets for staff has also made a difference. Instead of needing to go home during the day, teachers can now use the school’s facilities, giving them more time with their students and increasing contact hours for learning. 

The improvements have also helped tackle absenteeism. School staff reported that attendance among both girls and boys has increased, with fewer students missing valuable time in class. 

For girls, the addition of showers has been particularly important. Having a private place to wash and manage their menstrual health means they can attend school with greater comfort and confidence, reducing one of the barriers that can prevent girls from completing their education. 

Fifteen-year-old Gabriel lives just five minutes from the school. He dreams of becoming a journalist one day. Twelve-year-old Alicia hopes to become a doctor. 

Like students everywhere, Gabriel and Alicia need the opportunity to focus on their education and pursue their goals. Access to safe water, sanitation and handwashing facilities helps create the conditions for that to happen. 

This Global Handwashing Day help more students access safe water, sanitation and handwashing facilities. Every donation helps create healthier schools and stronger opportunities for children like Gabriel and Alicia. www.villagewater.org/donate