BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has described the hand-over new ablution facilities to Naha school in Honiara, as an important step towards improving student health, dignity and safety.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, last month, ADB Country Director Anthony Gill said the ADB was pleased to support the Government of Solomon Islands through the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) to deliver the new facilities.
Mr Gill acknowledged several partners who contributed to the project, including the Honiara City Council (HCC), the Naha school board, the Solomon Islands Water Authority and Plan International.
He said the project is a collective effort involving many people who worked behind the scenes to ensure the facilities were delivered to benefit students.
“This is the first school I have visited since arriving in Solomon Islands on February 4, and I will remember this school for my entire life,” Mr Gill said.
He said the new facilities will help improve students’ daily school experience by promoting dignity, health, safety and respect.
Mr Gill said that a lack of proper sanitation facilities in schools across the Pacific often leads to teenage girls dropping out of school.
He said providing safe and dignified toilets is important in ensuring girls remain in school and continue their education.
“So not only do these facilities serve students now, but they also help keep young women who are part of our future in school learning and preparing for their future,” he said.
Mr Gill urges students to take care of the new facilities so they can continue to serve future generations.
“Today we hand over these facilities to the school, and that makes them your facilities. Please treat them with respect so the next generation of students can also enjoy the safety and dignity they provide,” he said.
He concluded by wishing the students and staff a productive and successful school year.
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