The Importance of a Wash Program in Schools
Improving infrastructure and delivering crucial education to cultivate healthier, more focused students
Written by Rika Andini
Improving infrastructure and delivering crucial education to cultivate healthier, more focused students
Written by Rika Andini
Access to clean and sanitary water is a cornerstone of human dignity and health, recognized globally as a fundamental human right. Yet, in numerous regions worldwide, including Indonesia, this vital necessity remains distressingly unmet. Recent statistics paint a stark reality: a staggering 22 percent of schools in Indonesia lack access to sanitary water, posing a serious threat to the well-being of both students and staff.
One school at the heart of this challenge is SD 1 Singakerta in Ubud, Bali. The restroom facilities here are woefully inadequate, falling short of even the most basic sanitation standards. This deficiency not only jeopardizes the health of those attending the school but also hampers the learning environment, as students are unable to access clean and sanitary facilities.
Furthermore, a critical aspect of maintaining proper hygiene and health education is often overlooked at SD 1 Singakerta. There is a noticeable absence of educational posters that could serve as valuable resources for students, imparting essential knowledge about hygiene practices. These posters could cover a range of topics, from proper handwashing techniques to information about waterborne illnesses, thereby empowering students with the information they need to safeguard their health.
The repercussions of this dire situation are far-reaching. Without access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities, students and staff face an increased risk of waterborne diseases, which can lead to absenteeism and a decline in overall academic performance. Moreover, the lack of suitable facilities compromises the dignity of individuals, particularly for young learners who should be able to attend school without the worry of inadequate sanitation.
Addressing this critical issue demands a concerted effort from various stakeholders, including governmental bodies, NGOs, and local communities. Collaborative initiatives are essential to bridge the gap and ensure that schools like SD 1 Singakerta receive the support they urgently require. Investments in infrastructure, such as the construction or renovation of restroom facilities, must be prioritized. Additionally, providing educational materials, including informative posters, can play a pivotal role in equipping students with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health and hygiene.
Recognizing the pressing issue of inadequate access to clean and sanitary water in schools across Indonesia, Air Minum Bersih, an organization deeply committed to ensuring equitable access to clean water, has embarked on a transformative initiative known as the “WASH Program.”
One of the noteworthy instances of this program in action is its implementation at SDN 1 Singakerta, located in Ubud, Bali. Here, AMB has made significant improvements aimed at enhancing the overall sanitation and health conditions for students and staff. These improvements encompass several key facets:
One of the primary components of the WASH Program at SDN 1 Singakerta has been the refurbishment and enhancement of restroom facilities. These upgrades are designed to provide students and staff with more comfortable and hygienic toilets, which are essential for maintaining the health and well-being of the school community. Clean and functional restrooms are fundamental to creating a conducive learning environment and reducing the risk of waterborne diseases.
In addition to physical infrastructure improvements, AMB has taken proactive steps to educate students about the importance of proper hygiene and sanitation practices. To this end, educational posters related to handwashing and other hygiene-related topics have been prominently displayed within the school premises. These informative posters serve as valuable visual aids, imparting essential knowledge that empowers students to adopt and maintain healthy habits.
AMB’s commitment to ensuring access to clean water extends to the installation of advanced water purification technology. Specifically, the “Carocell Solar Water Purification system” has been implemented at SDN 1 Singakerta. These cutting-edge purification systems harness the power of solar energy to provide a sustainable and efficient method for purifying water.
By ensuring that students and staff have easy access to clean and safe drinking water, these systems contribute not only to better health but also to improved focus and overall well-being. Clean and accessible water is a fundamental requirement for maintaining good health, which, in turn, has a positive impact on students’ attendance and their ability to concentrate on their studies.
The holistic approach of AMB’s WASH Program, exemplified by its efforts at SDN 1 Singakerta, addresses multiple dimensions of the challenge posed by inadequate water and sanitation facilities in schools. By upgrading restrooms, providing educational materials, and implementing advanced water purification systems, AMB is not only improving the physical infrastructure of the school but also fostering a culture of hygiene and health awareness among students and staff.
The impact of these improvements extends far beyond the walls of SDN 1 Singakerta. Students who have access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities are more likely to attend school regularly, remain engaged in their studies, and experience improved overall health. Furthermore, the benefits of this program resonate within the broader community, as it promotes a healthier and more informed population.
References
Jalan Penestanan, Sayan,
Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, 80571
SK KEMENHUMKAM
AHU-0020799.AH.01.04 Tahun 2022
PNRI
Berita Negara No 080 Tahun 2022
Akta Notaris
no 09, 30 September 2022
AMB Digital 2022
Privacy Policy