“Everything is different today because of this water point.” — Kabita
Kabita would know — she’s been a teacher here, at this high school in southern Bangladesh, for 32 years.
When she started, there were only two classrooms: One hut, and one tin shed. They were filled with 200 students, mostly boys. But today, 375 students (mostly girls!) and 12 teachers call this school home. And thanks to a new rainwater harvesting system funded by supporters like you, they no longer have to worry about where their water will come from each day.
Before, worry was a daily reality. One student shared, “We were afraid of drinking water. We would boil it and use purifying tablets, but we’d still get sick two to three times a month.”
The school’s new rainwater harvesting system, powered by solar energy, pumps clean water through a network of pipes. With the promise of clean water, education, not illness, can stay at the forefront.
Students don’t just benefit from this system — they manage it, too. The Student Cabinet, an elected group of students, oversees the water project, practicing leadership and responsibility while boosting their confidence.
In addition to the water system, this project also included new restrooms. For girls, who make up two-thirds of the student body, this is especially important. Menstrual health is often considered taboo, leading some girls to leave school or even drop out when they get their periods. But now, with clean water and private facilities, they can stay in school all day. One student told us, “Now, I believe the female students will achieve everything they want to achieve in life.”
Girls are dreaming of their futures more than ever, and Kabita is watching this forward progress happen in real time. “Women empowerment is going forward. Girls are doing the work. That’s why we’re going forward. The development of our country depends on if we’re strong enough to uphold our position.”
Everywhere you look, the influence of clean water is clear. Students refilling water bottles. Recess packed with laughter. Full classrooms. Bathrooms in their rightful role as a safe place for students to gather and gossip.
All this change is fueled by a basic need being rightfully met. And that’s all thanks to you.
Photos by Cubby Graham