GOVERNMENT has been urged to improve sanitation facilities in schools amid concerns of inadequate infrastructure, which affects the health of learners around the country.
The call was made by Harare proportional representative legislator Vivian Pamela Chitime during the National Assembly session recently.
“Government must prioritise rehabilitation and construction of sustainable water supply, sanitation facilities and hygiene promotion (WASH) infrastructure so that all learners have a supportive environment for learning and health,” she said.
Chiteme said in Zvimba North district at Herbert Chitepo Primary School, the students are learning in abandoned tobacco grading sheds with structures not suitable for educational purposes.
“Without reliable WASH facilities in schools, students are vulnerable to waterborne diseases, hence this affects girls’ attendance in school during their menstruation period, making it hard for them to access quality education,” she added.
Chiteme said improving WASH facilities is critical as it empowers students.
Masvingo proportional representative MP Sethulo Ndebele said most schools in Matabeleland North province have no water reticulation and rely on Organisation of Rural Association for Progress.
“Students travel long distances, around 5km, to school and those schools lack water facilities making their lives difficult,” she said.
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“I plead with the government to drill boreholes within the school yards.”
Ndebele said the government should prioritise building schools with adequate facilities to allow learners to attain better education.
