Students: 1,303
Boys: 676
Girls: 627
Teachers: 29

Before the new water well, students at Nalipiri Primary School were leaving class to collect water from a riverbed. Teachers and students also suffered from waterborne illnesses, making it harder to stay healthy and focused at school.

The lack of water was especially difficult for girls. Without a reliable water source for sanitation, girls were sometimes sent home for up to four days each month during their periods. With 627 girls enrolled, access to water is an important part of helping them stay in school throughout the month.

The new well is already bringing hope for better sanitation and a healthier school environment. Teachers and students now have water available on campus, and the school hopes to add a changing room to give girls a private place to manage their periods with dignity.

The school has strong academic results to build on. In 2025, Nalipiri achieved a 96% graduation rate and ranked #1 among the 11 schools in the Mlongwe Zone. One student advanced to a national school, five to district schools, and 32 to CDSS.

Still, absenteeism remains a challenge, with about 10 students absent each week. The school has trained Girls’ Teachers and Student Guides who support students, and access to water can help remove one more barrier to attendance.

“We are so happy to have water,” says Head Teacher Jenny Ntidula. For the 1,303 students at Nalipiri, this well means more than having water at school. It means better sanitation, fewer water-related obstacles, and a better opportunity for every student—especially girls—to stay in class and learn.