THE National Education Trust (NET), in collaboration with American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ), will execute a water harvesting and sanitation upgrade project to enhance water accessibility and sanitation facilities at Cambridge Primary School in Cambridge, St James. AFJ has provided a grant totalling US$34,571 for the project, marking a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to improve educational infrastructure in Jamaica.

Founded in 1982, AFJ is a non-profit organisation committed to supporting Jamaican charitable initiatives, with a history of philanthropic endeavours amounting to approximately US$20 million. The collaboration with NET underscores AFJ’s dedication to systemic development in crucial areas such as education, health care and economic empowerment.

“Working with the National Education Trust has been extremely valuable to our work, responding to our issues, shortening the process to identify critical needs, and personalising the donor experience,” said Wendy Hart, president of AFJ.

NET, a registered charitable organisation and a Government of Jamaica agency, plays a pivotal role in mobilising financial and quality resource investments for the education sector. With a focus on infrastructure development, NET implements projects to enhance access to education and learning across the island.

The water harvesting and sanitation upgrade project at Cambridge Primary School aims to address critical deficiencies in water accessibility and sanitation infrastructure. By installing a water harvesting and expansion of the water storage system, and through the upgrading of bathroom facilities, the project seeks to provide a conducive environment for teaching and learning while promoting health and hygiene among students and staff.

The commencement of the project on February 23 marked a significant milestone, with stakeholders convening a kick-off/site handover meeting to outline strategic objectives, responsibilities and timelines. Representatives from AFJ, NET, the Ministry of Education and Youth, Cambridge Primary School, and contracted company Marken Construction Co Ltd, actively participated in discussions to ensure alignment and consensus.

Commenting on the project’s kick-off, Latoya Harris-Ghartey, executive director of NET, said NET is pleased with the cohesive trajectory established during the kick-off meeting, which sets the stage for a smooth and successful implementation process.

“This project exemplifies our commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure and fostering a conducive learning environment for our students to improve learning outcomes,” she added.

And Causwell Henry, principal of Cambridge Primary School, expressed excitement about the project.

“This initiative marks the beginning of a new chapter for our school and will greatly benefit our students and teachers, creating a healthier learning and teaching environment,” he said.

The project is expected to last for four months and will benefit the school’s population of 350 students and 20 teaching and ancillary staff, mitigating the impact of poor sanitation on student health and academic performance.