Bangladesh – A child-friendly water pump increases water supply in primary schools

BACKGROUND – In 2007, Plan International, a child-centered community development organization found that among rural primary schools in Bangladesh, 50% did not have an improved water source and none had available water for hand washing. Moreover, existing hand pumps at schools were not designed to be used by school-children; they were too large or required too much physical force to operate. THE PROGRAM – Since 2009, Plan began testing the “Easy Pump” water supply system operated by schoolchildren using the arms of a playground seesaw. With the oscillation of a seesaw-operated piston, clean water is pumped from an underground aquifer into an overhead tank, which stands over the roof of the school. Taps at the school latrines, drinking water corners and washing basins are connected with the overhead tank, making it easy for children to draw water. Currently, about 2,850 students and faculty are benefiting from the installation of 12 Easy Pumps in a similar number of schools. The components of the pump are manufactured and installed using local skills and workmanship. Total installation cost of the pump is $700, and the annual maintenance cost is $4. RESULTS - Improved supply of running water throughout the school year; less time spent for fetching water and more time for study and recreation for students; better attendance in school due to availability of playing equipment. Children liked the “Easy Play” pumps. CONCLUSION -The “Easy Play” water supply pump is a cost-effective and child-friendly solution to water- and sanitation-related problems in primary schools.