A shortage of water and proper sanitation continues to pose a grave challenge in numerous rural areas and rural schools within the Vhembe District. Regrettably, this predicament is further exacerbated by the persistent load-shedding schedules.
In many schools, the inability to generate sufficient water due to power outages leads to compromised sanitary conditions. However, Uatshila Munenyiwa, a 16-year-old Grade 11 learner at Thengwe Secondary, has devised a solution to address this critical health issue.
Hailing from Mangaya village in the Mutale area, this enterprising young learner embarked on her project in January of this year. She participated in the South African Youth Water Prize competition, earning the distinction of provincial winner in April.
Uatshila elaborated on her innovative system, which encompasses three essential components: a powering system fuelled by a solar panel for energy generation, a water system that harnesses resources from natural sources such as rivers and rainwater, and a chemical aspect comprising cost-effective cleaning detergents for automated toilet cleaning, following each flush. The system operates entirely automatically.
Uatshila is resolute in her belief that her project holds the potential to address multifaceted challenges encountered by schools in rural regions. "I have always aspired to be a problem solver, and I am elated to have realised my purpose. The design is highly appealing and garners significant attention. I executed it meticulously, employing well-calculated angles," she said.