—Headteachers, principals highlight improved health, learning and sustainability through new purification systems

THE impact of Project FLOW was brought into sharp focus through heartfelt testimonials from school leaders who say the initiative is already transforming daily life for students and staff across Region Three.
Speaking on Friday during the commissioning ceremony for 15 Water Purification Systems installed in secondary schools, Head Teacher of Leguan Secondary School, Mrs. Elizabeth Petrie, described the project as a major relief for the school community.

Mrs. Petrie had said that at Leguan Secondary, they are extremely grateful for the installation of the FLOW project water purification system.
“This initiative has made a tremendous difference in the lives of our students, teachers, and staff by providing not only access to clean water, but now it’s safe to drink, and it’s reliable to drink every day and not some days,” Petrie said.
Petrie revealed that before the system was installed, the school had to purchase water for students, often stretching limited resources to do so.
She explained that there were occasions when she personally contributed money to ensure students had drinking water, while at times the school also relied on funds from the Parent Teacher Association (PTA). Eventually, a parent from the community stepped in to assist by providing free water from her own system.
According to Petrie, the installation has significantly improved health and hygiene within the school while also encouraging greater awareness about environmental sustainability.
Students are now able to stay hydrated throughout the day, something she said has positively affected their concentration, attendance, and overall wellbeing.
“We sincerely commend the FLOW Project Team and all their partners involved in this commitment to support education and community development,” Petrie expressed.
“Your contribution is an investment in the future of our children and the continued growth of our school community.”
Meanwhile, Principal of the Leonora Technical and Vocational Training Centre, Mr. Mark Adams, also praised the initiative, noting that the project has had a meaningful impact on the institution.

According to Adams, the system now provides purified drinking water for more than 143 students, staff, and visitors, greatly improving the quality of water available on the compound.
He further highlighted that the addition of a solar-powered system has created valuable practical learning opportunities for students pursuing electrical training.
“Our trainees will be actively involved in operating and maintaining these systems, and this will help to build their technical skills and a sense of responsibility,” Adams said.
He added that the project is also helping to reduce plastic waste on campus while promoting a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
The water purification systems were commissioned under Project FLOW through a collaboration involving Recover Guyana, the Greater Guyana Initiative, and the Ministry of Education.