An article from Robert Fava, Rotary Club of Werribee
Thanks to a partnership between the Rotary Clubs of Werribee and Cabanatuan City in The Philippines, and the support of a Rotary District 9800 Foundation Humanitarian Grant, students at Nueva Ecija High School in Region III, Luzon in the Philippines now have access to new filtered water facilities and the school’s first dedicated e-Learning Centre.
The Foundation Grant was essential to the work and allowed both clubs to deliver facilities that will benefit the school community for many years. Nueva Ecija High School has approximately 6,000 students across its junior and senior campuses. Providing suitable facilities for a school of this size is a significant undertaking, particularly when it comes to access to clean water and technology.
The WASH project provided two covered structures containing four large water troughs with multiple taps. These give students ready access to filtered drinking water and handwashing facilities during the school day. The new facilities have been positioned for easy student access and will make an important contribution to hygiene and general wellbeing across the school.
The second project established a completely new e-Learning Centre. This is the first facility of its kind at the school and gives students a dedicated space for computer-based learning and research. The centre has been equipped with desktop computers and printers. It also includes a new ceiling, secure steel-framed windows, a new entrance door and improved adjoining toilet and washing facilities.
Many students do not have regular access to computers at home. The centre will give them the opportunity to develop practical digital skills, complete research and take part in lessons supported by technology. Teachers will also be able to use the centre to broaden the way subjects are presented.
The Rotary District 9800 Foundation grant played a major part in making both projects possible. It provided the financial support needed to turn the clubs’ plans into completed facilities. The outcome is a good example of how contributions to The Rotary Foundation return to communities through practical projects in health and education.
Werribee Rotarian Michael Redding led the project for the Rotary Club of Werribee, supported by Past President Robert Fava. In the Philippines, Immediate Past President Ricky Salazar and Current President Francis “Kikoh” Gabasan of the Rotary Club of Cabanatuan City worked closely with the school and local suppliers. Their local knowledge and regular oversight were important throughout the project.
Permanent signage at both facilities acknowledges the Rotary Clubs of Werribee and Cabanatuan City, Rotary District 9800 and The Rotary Foundation.
The two clubs have developed a strong working relationship through their shared commitment to helping young people. For the students of Nueva Ecija High School, that partnership has delivered clean drinking water, improved handwashing facilities and access to digital learning for the first time. These are practical improvements that will make a real difference to everyday school life.