This project has been completed under the direction of Peace Corps Volunteer Socorro Leandro. To read about the beginning of the project, CLICK HERE.
The project was originally designed to construct two ventilated pit latrines at the school.
Socorro reports:
The Shingian Cherif Elementary School latrine project is now finished. There are now two Turkish-style latrines, one for female students and the other for male students.
The original plan was for two simple pit latrines. However, the school faculty and parents association decided that they instead preferred two Turkish-style latrines, and agreed to pay the extra cost.
The school director and teachers hired and supervised the work of the mason, carpenter, and digger.
Water Charity funds paid for the labor of all of the skilled craftsmen, as well as for most of the material for the project.
The school provided the extra materials that were used, and bought materials for two handwashing stations. In addition, the school will pay for upkeep, maintenance, and repairs.
The students and teachers are very happy with the latrines. The students and community members have said to me that they are grateful for my work and that of the school faculty.
The latrines are within walking distance of the classrooms. Now, for the first time, students do not have to wait to return home, or go behind the school to defecate or urinate.
At a village meeting at the school, the teachers and I gave a presentation on handwashing and the proper use of a Turkish-style latrine. Later on that week, another presentation was given to each classroom.
The project was a good experience for the school director, who is now encouraged to plan additional projects with the help of the community and local workers.
Averill Strasser and Beverly Rouse, representing Water Charity, together with Marc Champagne, on assignment from Photographers Without Borders, had the opportunity to visit with Socorro and see the project while it was underway.
We wish to thank Socorro for completing this project, and again extend our gratitude to the SLOW LIFE Foundation for providing the funding.
