STRENGTHENING HYGIENE AND SANITATION AS A GATEWAY TO HOPE IN NORTHWEST SCHOOLS
In parts of the Northwest Region of Cameroon, where communities face ongoing challenges from conflict and displacement, many primary schools lack basic sanitation facilities. Pupils are forced to relieve themselves in the open and unimproved sanitation facilities, leading to health risks, environmental contamination, and barriers to education especially for girls.
Without proper toilets, open defecation around the school’s premises is the norm, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera. For adolescent girls, the lack of private and hygienic facilities increases or contributes to the missing of school during their menstrual periods, further deepening gender disparities in education.
The ongoing crisis in the region has only worsened these issues, straining resources and making it harder for communities to prioritize sanitation amidst displacement and insecurity. But there is hope.
With funding from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) and support from UNICEF, the Global Community Rescue (GCR) has transformed the situation for 10 regional primary schools. These schools have been equipped with modern, accessible, and hygienic gender-sensitive toilets—a simple yet profound improvement that has brought joy and dignity back to classrooms.
“The construction of the toilets has been a game-changer for our school,” says Madame Claris, a teacher at one of the beneficiary schools. “The pupils are no longer ashamed to come to school, and we’ve seen a significant reduction in absenteeism.”
The new toilets, designed to ensure accessibility for all pupils including persons with disabilities, are more than just facilities. They are a symbol of hope, health, and dignity. Nelso, a pupil at one of the schools, shares his excitement:
“We’re no longer held back by the lack of toilets. We’re free to learn, grow, and thrive!”
The headmaster of another school confirms the transformative impact: “Since the construction of the toilets, there has been a notable decrease in sanitation-related illnesses. The pupils are healthier, happier, and more focused on their studies.”
Recognizing the importance of sustainability, the project included measures to secure long-term benefits for the schools and communities. Residents were involved at every project stage, fostering a sense of responsibility and ownership. A maintenance fund was established to cover repair and replacement costs, while schools were provided with consistent water sources and proper waste management systems. Additionally, hygiene education initiatives were conducted to teach pupils and teachers proper practices, and a WASH Committee was responsible for keeping the facilities and services operational, ensuring that the facilities remain effective and impactful.
The success of the project highlights the power of collaboration. Despite the ongoing crisis, the dedication of CERF, UNICEF, GCR, and the local communities has brought tangible improvements. As Madame Claris notes,
“We’re grateful to our partners for bringing dignity and joy to our schools. The toilets are not just facilities; they’re a sign of hope for a better future.”
Yet, much remains to be done. For every school that now has a safe and hygienic toilet, many others still lack basic facilities. Thousands of children in the Northwest Region continue to struggle without access to sanitation, a challenge that requires continued commitment and support.
The journey to ensuring every child has access to clean and safe hygiene facilities is far from over. But projects like this remind us of the profound difference that collective action can make, turning shame into dignity and challenges into opportunities for growth.
