Families: 30

Students: 77

The school started four years ago to meet a need in the area—secondary education was limited, and students traveled long distances, often by bike, to attend classes. The first year welcomed only 15 students. Enrollment gradually increased to 30, then 60, and next year the school expects over 200 learners. Each year brings new challenges, but the arrival of a well has changed life at the school.

Before the well, water was scarce and far away. The nearest borehole was 1.5 km from the school, and during the dry season, students often had to leave class to fetch water. Some classrooms went uncleaned, handwashing was rare, and students struggled to remain attentive during lessons. Girls, especially, missed school during menstruation, and boys sometimes left mid-day to carry water back for their families. The old well sometimes broke under heavy use, and during the rainy season, students feared snakes and unsafe conditions at the river.

Now, clean water is available on site. Students can wash hands, keep classrooms tidy, and drink water safely throughout the day. Girls attend more consistently, even during menstruation, and students no longer need to leave school mid-lesson. Teachers can conduct chemistry and physics experiments without worrying about water shortages. Attendance has improved, and students can focus on learning all nine subjects each day. In July 2025, 22 students sat for the Junior Certificate Exam, and 19 passed—an achievement made possible in part by the well.

The change extends beyond academics. Students can take their medicine at school, eat properly, and maintain hygiene without leaving the campus. The presence of water has reduced distractions and given students and staff a sense of stability. Teachers note that attention spans are longer, dropout rates are lower, and learning retention has improved.

Students now dream bigger than ever. Simeon wants to become a soldier, Lawrent hopes to be an engineer, and others aspire to be nurses, teachers, and police officers. Water has not only made school life manageable; it has made it possible for students to pursue their goals fully. The school feels alive with opportunity, and every day, Jackie L. Green Secondary sees students stepping closer to brighter futures.