Semi-Permanent Ablution Blocks Boost Hygiene and Dignity at Earthquake-Hit School

Port Vila, Vanuatu, 21 August 2025 - Two newly constructed semi-permanent students’ ablution blocks at Ecole Publique de Centre Ville have marked an important step in restoring Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities after the devastating earthquake of 17 December 2024.

Thanks to these two ablutions blocks, 409 boys and 408 girls are now using better toilets, ensuring a healthier, safer, and more dignified learning environment. The facilities were built with financial and technical support from UNICEF with a contribution from the Government of Australia.

The earthquake last December caused extensive damage to educational infrastructure in Efate and surrounding areas, forcing urgent action to ensure that schools could reopen for the start of the 2025 academic year. UNICEF worked closely with the Ministry of Education and Training (MoET) to install portable toilets while repairing damaged facilities and constructing new ones, with a special focus on WASH, a cornerstone for health, attendance, and quality learning.

"I feel really happy to use the new toilets because they are clean and safe. It makes coming to school much better," said Hortense, a Year 8 student at Ecole Publique de Centre Ville.

The Director of Education Services from MoET, Mrs Nanise Lapi, highlighted the importance of these ablution blocks. She said, "On behalf of the Ministry, I thank UNICEF and the Government of Australia for standing with us in our recovery efforts. These new facilities are not only essential for hygiene and health but also for ensuring students’ learning and attendance."

UNICEF emphasized that safe WASH facilities are an essential part of quality education. UNICEF Pacific's Chief of Vanuatu Field Office, Eric Durpaire, said, "Every child deserves a safe place to learn, and that includes access to clean water and proper sanitation. WASH facilities help prevent illness, keep children, especially girls, in school, and create an environment where learning can truly thrive."

MoET, in collaboration with communities, schools, and development partners, reaffirms its commitment to delivering on the Vanuatu National Sustainable Development Plan 2016 to 2030, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This commitment emphasizes the collective effort to continually improve access, quality, and management within the Vanuatu education system.

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