In Katakwi Technical School, situated in Getom sub-county, Katakwi district, a pressing issue has emerged, one that directly affects the daily lives of its students. The school faces a significant shortage of pit latrines, which has led to a situation where students must share a single facility.
The gravity of this challenge came to light when the sole four-stance pit latrine facility designated for both boys and girls reached its capacity. Consequently, students now find themselves in the unfortunate situation of having to queue to access the only available latrine on the school premises.
The Latrine Shortage
During an exclusive interview with a local newspaper, the school’s headteacher, Joseph Aisu Edotun, confirmed the dire situation. He explained that the only pit-latrine facility available on the school grounds had become filled to capacity, leaving the students with no choice but to share the latrine constructed originally for the girls.
Students at the school expressed their concerns about the latrine shortage, highlighting the challenges they face. Juvetine Odony, a student, stated, “When it reaches the evening hours, we are forced to queue to share one latrine.”
Seeking a Solution
To address this crisis, the school administration has initiated negotiations with parents. Their goal is to encourage parents to contribute a minimum of 30,000 Ugandan shillings each, which will be used to construct an eco-san pit-latrine. This type of latrine can be emptied as needed, reducing the frequency of construction and, in turn, the associated costs.
The construction of an eco-san pit-latrine is not only a practical solution but also an eco-friendly one. It ensures that the facility remains operational even when it becomes full, eliminating the need for frequent construction of new latrines.
