Project is part of ‘Clean Water Initiative’.

NEW ROCHELLE, NY (Dec. 15, 2025) St. Jude Science and Technical College in Nigeria has been able to upgrade its water system thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The funding came from the Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative” and impacted 1,300 students, 70 staff and 350 youth from the community.

Salesians conducted a survey to understand the gaps in water supply, sanitation facilities, and hygiene practices in order to determine the best course of action for the project. This was followed by the construction and rehabilitation of the boreholes, wells and water storage. Salesians then launched school-based WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) clubs and outreach campaigns. Students and staff were trained on the operation and maintenance of the facilities.

Through the project, hand-washing points have been constructed at different places in the school compound. Existing toilets were renovated, and the project added more toilets in both the bathrooms for men and women and two for people with disabilities. Students and staff have easy access to the use of toilet facilities without any issue of overcrowding.

A Salesian noted, “The community played an active and enthusiastic role throughout the implementation of the WASH project. For many residents, both adults and children, the initiative introduced facilities and practices they had never encountered before. Their willingness to embrace the new systems and participate in training and maintenance activities reflects a promising foundation for long-term sustainability.”

Kumaga Joseph Tersor is a boarding student enrolled in the Department of Electrical Installation and Maintenance. He aspires to become a renowned engineer. He recalls that, until recently, the school only had a few pit toilets, which were inadequate for the student population.

Tesor recounted, “When the new toilet project began, we were thrilled. Our excitement grew even more when the project was completed. In fact, no other school in the entire Gboko area has a facility like this. For many students, this is their first encounter with modern sanitation. Our duties as prefects have become much easier — students no longer defecate in the bush, and they have been taught how to use the new toilets properly. When I shared this development with my friends, they were overjoyed. We are deeply grateful for this facility and extend our heartfelt thanks to the donor from Salesian Missions.”

About 64% of households in Nigeria consider themselves to be poor while 32% of households say their economic situation had worsened over a period of one year, according to UNICEF. Poverty still remains one of the most critical challenges facing the country and population growth rates have meant a steady increase in the number of people living in conditions of poverty.

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