Classroom Desks and Construction of a Toilet at the Rosa Academy

May 4

Location: Bonlifamba Village, Cameroon

Global Partner: The Luena Foundation

Local Partner: Action For Change

Project year 2025

The project, implemented by Action for Change (AFC) with funding from the Luena Foundation and the Sumar Lakhani Foundation, focused on improving sanitation and classroom infrastructure at Rosa Academic Nursery & Primary School in Bolifamba village, located in the Buea municipality of Cameroon.

The initiative had two main components:

1. Construction of a Gender-Sensitive Toilet Facility

A four-compartment toilet block was built—two stalls for girls, one for boys, and one for teachers. This addressed a critical need, as the school previously had no proper sanitation facilities. Students often resorted to open defecation, creating serious hygiene and safety risks.

2. Provision of Classroom Furniture

AFC supplied the school with 40 benches, 2 teacher tables, and 2 chairs, replacing the unsafe and uncomfortable conditions where children had been sitting on stones or bare floors. This significantly enhanced the learning environment, promoting better attention and participation in class.

The project aimed to improve public health, learning conditions, school attendance, and student dignity, while also strengthening community involvement in education. It was designed with a community-centered approach, involving parents, teachers, and local leaders from planning through implementation. Despite some challenges during construction, like children attempting to use the toilets before they were ready, the project was completed successfully and has already yielded positive impacts.