By Albert Santoli | Project leader
In the islands of Sulu Province of Mindanao, Philippines, the lack of clean drinking water and hand-washing facilities are major causes of illness for children. Similar to many other public schools, Sheikh Mustafa Elementary with 855 students from pre-school through 6th grade is continuously at risk from a variety of water-borne and mosquito carried diseases such as dengue fever and malaria, which can cause high fevers and sometimes agonizing death. These illnesses also cause of school absences, poor academic performance and lack of concentration. The United Nations rates Sulu Province, Philippines near the bottom of the global Human Health and Development Index. to counter these tragic conditions, Asia America Initiative has created clean water programs in partnership with local school and government officials to improve public health and support fundamental hygiene needed to build strong and healthy communities.
Our End of 2017 microproject, supported by generous AAI donors, enabled us to pourchase and build rainwater catchment tanks to serve the needs of Sheikh Mustafa Elementary. School, Nurse Khoy, who helps to oversee the program says: "It is amazing how positive support from people in the world outside of our islands has generated self reliance and lifted the quality of education in our school."
Sulu province, Philippines is rated on par with the poorest African countries by basic standards of sustainable lifestyle. In many communities, children miss school or perform poorly because of waterborne parasites and illnesses. We have purchased three 500 gallon plastic water tanks, along with pipes, and wash basins; community volunteers construct the water supply systems for elementary schools which currently have minimal access to clean water and soap.
Water tanks, pipes, and water purification material have enhanced the learning cabilities of children by providing potable water for handwashing and drinking. Water tanks also provide irrigation for vegetable gardens to enhance daily school lunches cooked by mothers of students. Lunches consist of chicken,eggs, vegetable soups and rice. Already in this school year, student performance has improved in schools which have received similar assistance through AAI's clean water support.
The long-term positive impact of this program empowers impoverished communities, improves education via public health and teaches livelihood skills such as gardening and carpentry to children from their parents and teachers. Our social media networks facilitate transparent communication and inspire communities who feel isolated and abandoned. AAI-sponsored schools promote positive attitudes and respect among various cultural groups. This facilitates peaceful cooperation to build peace.
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