Improving school water supply and sanitation

Although there have been many programmes in Sri Lanka to improve the water supply and sanitation in communities throughout the country, less attention has been given to schools in this respect. In many schools, facilities are below par. The Community Water Supply and Sanitation Programme Unit has developed a programme for schools but before implementing the technical assistance and financing facility, it was considered necessary to study the situation in 30 sample schools in Matara, Ratnapura and Badulla Districts and to make recommendations for improvement of project delivery. The survey carried out on sample schools shows poor water supply and sanitation facilities; 80% of schools have inadequate water and 30% have unsafe water quality leading to student exposure to water borne diseases. Lack of hygiene and maintenance for both water supply and latrines are also serious concerns. Findings of the survey were presented to a National Expert Seminar to facilitate formulation of national level policies and programmes to improve the situation. It made recommendations in four areas: provision of facilities, maintenance, hygiene education and institutional support. This report presents the findings of the survey and the outcome of the seminar. Appendices include questionnaires used and tables of results of the survey.