The Ernst Peyer Foundation has completed a major sanitation upgrade at St. John’s Integrated Senior High/Technical School (Special), providing improved water supply and modern toilet facilities to address longstanding hygiene challenges at the school.
The project was carried out in phases. The first phase focused on water access, with the installation of a 24-hour water supply system to ensure uninterrupted availability for students and staff. Washrooms in the school’s dormitories were also renovated to improve hygiene and sanitation conditions.
The second phase included the construction of modern Kumasi Ventilated Improved Pit (KVIP) toilets, as well as changing rooms and urinals for both boys and girls. The facilities were designed to promote hygiene, comfort and safety, and to serve the school community over the long term. The KVIP facility was officially commissioned on Feb. 27, 2026.
Headmaster Stephen Akuba expressed gratitude during the commissioning ceremony.
“These upgraded facilities are a major boost for our students and staff. They provide a clean and safe environment, which is essential not only for health but also for effective learning. We are deeply grateful to the Ernst Peyer Foundation for their support,” he said.
Students also welcomed the improvements.
“Before these renovations, we struggled with limited water supply and poorly maintained toilets. Now, it feels safe and hygienic. We can focus more on our studies without worrying about sanitation issues,” one student said.
Another student added, “The new changing rooms and urinals are very convenient, especially for girls. It shows that the school and the Foundation care about our wellbeing.”
Representatives of the Ernst Peyer Foundation said the initiative forms part of the organization’s broader mission to support education and public health through sustainable infrastructure.
“Access to clean water and proper sanitation is a basic right. By improving facilities in schools, we hope to encourage good hygiene practices and create an environment where students can thrive. This project is part of our wider commitment to supporting education through long-term, impactful interventions,” a spokesperson said.
School authorities noted that the upgraded facilities are expected to help curb open defecation and promote proper hygiene practices among students.
The project forms part of the Foundation’s wider efforts to support sustainable educational and public health infrastructure, aimed at ensuring students have access to safe and hygienic learning environments.
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