Allied Recovery International, 780 Parkwood Drive, Harrisonburg, VA 22802-2413, USA, ARI@AlliedRI.org
ARI improves school access to sanitation in earthquake-affected West Sumatra
With funding from UNICEF, ARI constructed emergency latrines and hand washing facilities at schools in tsunami-affected West Sumatra. As part of the overall strategy, ARI provided teacher training in sanitation and hygiene promotion that provided a foundation for longer-term strengthening of school facilities and school health programs.
ARI initially conducted assessments to select school sites either in need of latrine construction or of rehabilitation of existing latrines. ARI’s construction consisted of latrines and temporary septic tanks, hand washing facilities, and well or rain harvested water supply systems. Local workers were trained in carpentry and plumbing as they participated as labour for the construction.
ARI trained teachers to promote proper human waste disposal, cleaning of latrines, good hand washing, and protection of water sources. The training curriculum was based on tools and methods developed by UNICEF, Oxfam, and ARI. Each school developed training plan for promotional activities. In support of these activities, ARI distributed hygiene kits to promote proper use and cleaning of school latrines. Students also participated in the training to become peer educators.
ARI trained teachers to promote proper human waste disposal, cleaning of latrines, good hand washing, and protection of water sources. The training curriculum was based on tools and methods developed by UNICEF, Oxfam, and ARI. Each school developed training plan for promotional activities. In support of these activities, ARI distributed hygiene kits to promote proper use and cleaning of school latrines. Students also participated in the training to become peer educators.
With expertise in construction, community mobilization, and public health, ARI is uniquely positioned to address both the supply and demand sides of water and sanitation projects, ensuring that newly constructed facilities are utilized, maintained, and accepted by schools and communities.