This story comes from a location first served by 20 Liters is 2012. Today, 13 years later, our filter system is still going strong – providing clean, healthy water to hundreds of children every day.
Lack of access to clean water in Rwanda has profound effects on children, stunting their physical growth and hindering their mental development. Fetching water is often a household chore assigned to children, particularly girls, and this responsibility frequently interrupts their education.
Ishimwe Evariste, a dedicated educator and the founder of Glory Academy in the Gahanga Sector, was determined to change this for his community. Glory Academy, which now educates over 1,100 students, faced significant challenges in its early days. Waterborne diseases, like worms, were common, and many students missed school due to illness. This not only disrupted their education but also took a toll on their health.
For years, access to clean drinking water was a constant struggle. Students were often forced to drink from unsafe sources, leading to frequent absences and ongoing health issues. In 2012, a solution arrived in the form of a 20 Liters SAM II water filter – a blessing for Mr. Evariste and the entire school. Immediately after installation, the impact was felt by both students and teachers.
Since receiving the filter, students now have consistent access to clean, safe drinking water and the results have been significant. Headmaster Evariste shared that illnesses have significantly decreased, allowing students to attend school without interruption. “Before the filter, students often missed school because of waterborne diseases. Now, with clean water, they are healthier, more focused and able to concentrate on their studies,” he explained.
To ensure all students stay hydrated throughout the day, the school follows a routine where water is provided three times daily – at 10:00 am, noon, and 3:00 pm. The filter is centrally located, and Aurea Tuyisabe, the designated water coordinator, ensures fair distribution to all students. Each student brings their own bottle to help with the process. The school has strict policies in place to prevent access to unsafe water sources, including taps, further safeguarding the students’ health.
The benefits of the water filter extend beyond physical health. With fewer health-related absences, students are able to focus more on their lessons, and their academic performance has improved noticeably. The availability of clean water has not only transformed their physical well-being but has also played a key role in their academic success.
Mr. Evariste expressed his deep gratitude to 20 Liters and World Relief for their invaluable support. “This filter has truly transformed the well-being and academic performance of our students,” he said, his appreciation clear. “May Almighty God bless 20 Liters.”
Thanks to the 20 Liters water filter, Glory Academy’s students are healthier, more focused and better equipped to learn. What began as a simple solution to a critical problem has become a vital resource, supporting the growth and future of an entire generation.
