FIVE-YEAR WASH FACILITY PROJECT WORTH 140 MILLION LAUNCHED WITH SITE HANDOVER IN OYAM

By Chris Woo

Oyam

A landmark €140 million Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Facility Project, funded by the European Union, was launched in Oyam District with a site handover at Minakulu Primary School on April 28, 2025.

The five-year initiative aims to improve sanitation in 199 schools nationwide, addressing key challenges that hinder girls’ transition from primary to secondary education.

Ministry of Water & Environment official Sinandugu Silvaster emphasized that inadequate sanitation facilities contribute to high dropout rates, especially among menstruating girls.

To tackle this, the project introduces hygiene-compliant toilets and aims to create a conducive learning environment through additional classrooms and staff houses, benefiting 24 schools in Oyam District alone.

Stakeholders underscored the importance of construction quality, urging bidders to ensure value for money and proper maintenance of the facilities.

Local Council 5 Chairperson Benson Dila praised the project for complementing government efforts, calling for accountability from all involved to sustain its impact.

Oyam’s Resident District Commissioner, Shilaku James, commended the European Union and the Ministry of Water & Environment for spearheading the initiative, noting its potential to reduce dropout rates among female students.

Minakulu Primary School Parents Teachers Association Chairperson, Charlse Chong, expressed gratitude, stressing that many girls had abandoned school due to inadequate changing rooms and sanitation facilities. He encouraged parents to support the initiative and help their daughters return to school.

Minakulu Primary School Head teacher, Rose Alok, reported that sensitization efforts had led to 15 child mothers resuming their studies. However, she highlighted ongoing challenges, including overcrowded classrooms and insufficient teachers, urging continued support from the government and partners.