The Power of Clean Water in Empowering Girls' Education – 17-year-old Gladys' story of transformation

For 17-year-old Gladys, attending school used to be a daily struggle. As a student at Masamba Secondary School in Zambia, she often faced challenges that made learning difficult. One of the biggest obstacles was the lack of access to clean water.

"I would miss school for days, especially during my menstrual cycle," Gladys recalls. "Without proper water and sanitation facilities, managing my hygiene was a challenge. I felt embarrassed and uncomfortable, so I chose to stay home."

Like many other girls at her school, Gladys would spend long hours fetching water from distant sources, cutting into the time she needed for her studies. The lack of clean water also meant increased cases of waterborne diseases, further affecting attendance rates. The situation was dire, and the school community knew something had to change.

Recognizing these challenges, the Citizen Voice and Action (CVA) advocacy group, made up of parents, and community leaders, stepped in. Through persistent lobbying and engagement with the Ministry of Education, they advocated for the provision of clean water within the school premises. Their efforts paid off when the school received a borehole, along with improved sanitation facilities.

The impact of this intervention was immediate and profound.

"Since the borehole was installed, everything has changed," Gladys beams. "Now, I can focus on my studies without worrying about missing school. I have access to clean water for drinking and maintaining my hygiene. I no longer have to stay home during my menstrual cycle."

The transformation is echoed by Masamba Secondary School headteacher, Mr. Osward Chanda.

"The presence of clean water has drastically improved school attendance, particularly among girls," he says. "Before, many of our female students would miss up to a week of lessons every month due to menstrual hygiene challenges. But now, they have access to safe and private spaces to manage their hygiene, allowing them to stay in class and perform better academically."

Beyond improved attendance, the availability of water has enhanced the overall learning environment. Teachers report that students are more focused, healthier, and more engaged in their studies. Cases of absenteeism due to waterborne illnesses have significantly reduced, and students now have the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities without the burden of fetching water long distances.

For Gladys, this change means more than just education; it means hope for a brighter future.

"I dream of becoming a teacher so I can inspire other girls to stay in school and work hard. Water has given me that chance," she says with a smile.

Gladys’ story is a demonstration to the power of advocacy and community action. With something as simple yet vital as clean water, her journey to success has been revived, proving that when barriers to education are removed, girls can thrive and reach their full potential.