Almost 3,000 students in Vanuatu are benefiting from improved Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities after the Ministry of Education and Training (MoET), together with UNICEF and World Vision Vanuatu, handed over upgrades to seven schools heavily affected by the 17 December 2024 earthquake.
From a press release it states that the restored facilities allowed 1,428 girls and 1,526 boys to start the 2025 academic year on time with access to safe and improved WASH services. Project works included the installation of eleven new water tanks, rehabilitation of seven rainwater-harvesting systems, and construction of two new accessible sanitation blocks. Other improvements included the replacement of gutters, sinks, and toilet seats across Anamburu School, Etas Grace, Freshwota School, Malasitapu School, Maumau SDA School, NTM School, and Seaside Community School.
The official handover ceremony took place at Etas Grace School with MoET’s Director of Education Services, Mrs Nanise Lapi; school principals; UNICEF Pacific’s Chief of the Vanuatu Field Office, Mr Eric Durpaire; and World Vision Vanuatu Country Director, Mr Clement Chipokolo.
Speaking at the event, Mrs Lapi thanked the partners for their rapid response. “The restored services also restored hope for our children. I urge all schools, principals, teachers, and students to take great care of these facilities so they may serve generations to come. The Ministry remains committed to ensuring children continue to learn in safe and supportive environments despite natural disasters,” she said.
Access to safe WASH services is critical for children’s health, dignity, and learning. Studies show that improved water, sanitation, and hygiene can reduce diarrhoeal disease by up to 60 per cent in low- to middle-income countries. Clean facilities also help keep students healthy and in school.
Mr Eric Durpaire reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment: “Every child has the right to learn in a safe, healthy, and dignified environment. UNICEF is proud to work with MoET and partners to ensure education continues after the earthquake.”
Mr Clement Chipokolo of World Vision Vanuatu added, “This collaboration demonstrates the power of partnership. Beyond the restored facilities, this work strengthens resilience in schools and communities, preparing them for future challenges. We are proud to stand alongside MoET and UNICEF in building brighter, safer futures for Vanuatu’s children.”
MoET acknowledged the invaluable contributions of all partners and reaffirmed its commitment to the Vanuatu National Sustainable Development Plan 2016–2030, the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Ministry will continue working with communities, schools, and partners to improve access, quality, and management of education services across Vanuatu.
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