In the suburbs of Zaria, Kaduna state, nestled within the community, lies UBE Kofar Kibo Primary School. This institution is home to over 1500 eager young minds, but amidst their pursuit of knowledge, they faced an alarming challenge – the absence of basic toilet facilities. Open defecation was a daily reality for these students, a practice that persisted for years. FLO Foundation, in collaboration with the Pestalozzi International Foundation, embarked on a mission to change this narrative, not only to improve hygiene but to create a better learning environment.
The Journey Begins
With a dedicated implementation period from November 10th, 2020, to December 17th, 2020, FLO Foundation undertook the task of constructing two toilets for UBE Kofar Kibo Primary School. The numbers tell a compelling story:
- Toilets Built: 2
- Student Beneficiaries: 1509
- Staff Beneficiaries: 11
Taking the First Steps
FLO Foundation initiated this transformative project with preliminary meetings with the school’s leadership. The idea of constructing pit toilets was met with open arms, given the dire need for proper toilet facilities. The principal of the school gave immediate approval, and the Zaria local government education board representative verbally agreed. Furthermore, a letter seeking approval from FLO Foundation was presented and approved by the school’s chairman.
Next came the land survey. A 9-square-meter plot designated by the Zaria local government education board was allocated for the project. The location, situated between two existing, unused toilets, was ideal. It was decided that one of the existing toilets with a septic tank would be used, necessitating the demolition of the other toilet.
Materials, Labor, and Construction
The project’s success depended on the timely acquisition of construction materials. The project management office at FLO Foundation, working within the allocated budget, procured materials as needed. Local shops a few miles from the project location supplied materials such as cement, building blocks, and rods. Due to limited storage space on-site, materials were purchased in installments throughout the construction process.
Bringing experienced professionals on board was crucial. Two skilled bricklayers and two laborers were recruited based on their expertise and previous project experience. They were contracted to work on the project, with payment tied to milestones achieved.
Construction commenced on November 18th, 2020, and concluded on December 5th, 2020, spanning approximately three weeks. Throughout this period, FLO Foundation members were present on-site, ensuring the project’s smooth execution. By the end of this intensive period, the two toilets stood proudly, ready to transform lives.
Commissioning and Beyond
On December 17th, 2020, the newly constructed toilets were officially commissioned. While the commissioning was initially scheduled for December 12th, unforeseen circumstances prompted a rescheduling. Despite the late notice and inconvenient timing, a representative from FLO Foundation attended the event, symbolically handing over the keys to the toilets to the school’s leadership. Their joy and gratitude were palpable.
Lessons Learned and Impact
Challenges are an integral part of any project, and the UBE Toilet Project was no exception. A damaged septic tank required unexpected repairs, causing delays and additional expenses. Moreover, the security risks associated with commuting from Kano to Zaria were a concern, given the instability in northern Nigeria.
Nevertheless, valuable lessons were gleaned from this experience. Allocating more time for project implementation and residing in the project location for effective monitoring were identified as key improvements for future projects.
The impact of the UBE Toilet Project was evident even in the midst of the global pandemic. The students and teachers found comfort in their improved school environment, resulting in a significant reduction in open defecation practices.
Milestones Achieved
Week One – November 10th to 18th, 2020
- Drafted proposed toilet design.
- Prepared Bill of Quantity.
- Developed project program.
Week Two – November 18th to 25th, 2020
- Allocated plot of land for construction.
- Demolished one existing toilet.
- Commenced construction.
- Completed substructure and parts of superstructure.
- Built a privacy wall.
Week Three – November 26th to December 3rd, 2020
- Completed superstructure.
- Plastered the building.
- Installed windows and doors.
- Initiated plumbing work.
- Worked on the septic tank.
Week Four – December 4th to 12th, 2020
- Finalized construction, including septic tank repairs.
- Painted the toilets to match the school’s request.
- Scheduled and postponed the commissioning due to unforeseen circumstances.
A Brighter Future
The UBE Toilet Project at Kofar Kibo Primary School is a testament to FLO Foundation’s commitment to improving the lives of underserved communities. Through perseverance, teamwork, and resilience, these two toilets have made a profound difference in the lives of over 1500 students and 11 staff members.
Hygiene, health, and dignity have been restored to this school, creating an environment where learning can flourish. While challenges may arise, FLO Foundation remains dedicated to its mission, striving to bring positive change to communities one project at a time.
Join us in our mission to transform lives and create brighter futures. Together, we can make a lasting impact that reverberates through generations.
