THE Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) in partnership with Australia Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and UNICEF is taking a significant step in the implementation of the Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) project in Central Province.
In a way forward to progress the construction of WASH project a team from the UNICEF and MEHRD made a courtesy call to the provincial premier office and site visit to Macmahon Community High School on Monday 3rd, March 2025.
Led by UNICEF Pacific Multi Country Officer Mr. Jonathan Veitch the team provide updates on the progress of the project and reaffirmed their commitment in the implementation of the project.
To demonstrate their commitment Mr. Veitch together with Premier Hon. Michael Salani, Manager Asset Mr. Clement Tito, Education Provider Chief Education Officer Ms. Ellice Mataki participated in a tree planting.
Speaking during the visit to the school Mr. Veitch highlights the importance of WASH project to students towards achieving their full potentials.
He said almost 2/3 of schools in Solomon Islands do not have access to proper health facilities which affects the student learning. Particularly girls sometimes missed classes due to lack of private health facilities to manage their health.
“Students need clean, private and gender friendly facilities to manage their health to be able to learn effectively,” he said.
Manager Asset of MEHRD, Mr. Clement Tito acknowledges Australia government for their unwavering support in improving the well-being of communities in Solomon Islands, especially in the education sector.
“We all recognize that clean water, proper sanitation, and hygiene are fundamental to a child’s ability to learn and thrive.
“Unfortunately, many of our school’s struggle with inadequate facilities, exposing students to health risks and limiting their full potential.
“This project will ensure that our children have access to safe drinking water, clean toilets, and proper hygiene education—essentials that every child deserves,’’ he said.
Premier Hon. Salani expressed his deep appreciation to the Australian Government, UNICEF and MEHRD for embarking on WASH project.
He said learning environment begins with health.
“It is within this context that WASH project in our schools are so important to us.
“Clean water, proper sanitation and hygiene are fundamental to healthy and effectively learning environment,” Premier Salini said.
Implemented by UNICEF, the project will enhance WASH facilities in 30 schools in Central Province.
