Previously, Kageni Primary School in the Kigoma Region faced significant challenges with student attendance and academic performance due to a lack of clean water. Many students were frequently absent, either to assist their families in fetching water over long distances or because they were suffering from waterborne diseases contracted from untreated, contaminated sources.

The student’s absenteeism affected their ability to concentrate and perform well academically, resulting in low success rates in primary school examinations. With support from the Grundfos Foundation, UNICEF, and partners, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities have been installed at the school.

Water creates remarkable turnaround

The availability of clean, safe water has significantly reduced waterborne diseases among students, allowing them to attend school regularly. Consequently, students are more focused, and their academic performance is improving.

Headmaster of Kigeni Primary School in Kigoma, Tanzania, Mr. Ameir Selemani, whose school has witnessed an increase in students’ academic performance due to the availability of clean and safe water as a result of the installation of WASH facilities. Photo: UNICEF Tanzania

For instance, all 89 students who took the exams in the recent National Primary School Examinations met the criteria to advance to Secondary School. This is a remarkable turnaround from previous years.

This success is attributed to the availability of clean water, which has not only improved student health but also created a more conducive learning environment.

The transformation at Kigeni Primary School is a powerful example of how access to clean water can enhance education and empower students to achieve their full potential. So far, 15 schools in the region have benefited from similar WASH facilities, including running water, handwashing stations, and clean toilets, positive impact across the community.

Headmaster of Kigeni Primary School in Kigoma, showing the school’s water tank. Photo: UNICEF Tanzania