In Siaya County, Western Kenya, the number of primary school-age children is steadily increasing. In response, new schools are being constructed to accommodate the growing population. However, while the expansion of educational infrastructure is a positive step forward, many of these schools lack basic sanitation facilities. Toilets and hand-washing stations are often missing or inadequate, putting students at significant risk of illness and chronic absenteeism.

Poor hygiene conditions in schools contribute to the rapid spread of communicable diseases. Children frequently fall ill due to the absence of clean, functional toilets and the inability to wash their hands after using the restroom. This not only compromises their immediate health but also disrupts their education. When children miss school regularly—especially during the critical early years of learning—their academic performance suffers. Over time, this gap widens, diminishing their chances of succeeding in secondary education and beyond.

To address this urgent issue, TEL International is launching a targeted intervention to improve hygiene infrastructure in one of the region’s primary schools. The project will construct two six-stall toilet blocks—one for girls and one for boys—and install multiple hand-washing stations throughout the school grounds. These facilities will provide over 200 students with access to a clean and safe environment where they can learn without the constant threat of illness. But building infrastructure alone is not enough. To ensure lasting impact, the initiative will also include hygiene education. Teachers will receive ongoing training on the importance of hand-washing and sanitation, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to instill healthy habits in their students. This holistic approach not only improves current health outcomes but helps create a culture of cleanliness and prevention that will benefit the entire community for years to come.

Education is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty. When children are healthy, they are more likely to attend school regularly, perform better academically, and pursue greater opportunities in adulthood. Whether working in professional roles or managing family farms, individuals with a strong educational foundation are better equipped to succeed and support their families. This project is more than just a construction effort—it’s an investment in the future of the children in Siaya County. By improving sanitation and promoting health, TEL International is helping students stay in school, learn effectively, and build brighter futures for themselves and their communities.

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