CCDI, Swiss embassy donate toilets, library to Abuja primary school

The Create That Change Development Initiative (CCDI), in partnership with the embassy of Switzerland, has inaugurated new toilet and library facilities at the LEA Primary School, Sheritti, Kabusa, Abuja.

Speaking at the handing-over ceremony on Wednesday, Sharon Ayeni, executive director of CCDI, said the project was part of the organisation’s public school revival initiative (PSRI).

She said the initiative is aimed at improving hygiene, restoring dignity, and promoting inclusive learning in public schools across the federal capital territory (FCT).

Ayeni said access to clean toilets and libraries is a basic right that promotes both health and education among pupils.

“We believe that access to clean toilets is a basic right, not a luxury. Libraries open doors to knowledge and brighter futures,” she said.

She lamented the poor state of facilities in many public schools, calling on the government to do more to maintain school infrastructure nationwide.

“It’s demoralising to see students sitting on the ground when they could be sitting at desks. CCDI is working with other stakeholders to address these challenges, but government support is essential,” she added.

Ayeni said the first phase of the PSRI, supported by the Swiss embassy, delivered four toilet blocks and three libraries to public schools in the FCT.

She appealed for more donor support to expand the initiative to other parts of the country.

Siamak Rouhani, deputy ambassador of Switzerland to Nigeria, said the project reflects his country’s commitment to supporting basic and vocational education in Nigeria.

“Education is vital for children’s future. With good education, they can find jobs and integrate into the labour market,” Rouhani said.

He added that while Switzerland also supports vocational training through its private companies, the partnership focuses on strengthening foundational education for young pupils.

Afiniki Shekwagu, head teacher at the school, described the donation as a “dream come true” for the school community.

“This is a joyful day for us. The new facilities will make teaching and learning more effective and improve our pupils’ wellbeing,” she said.

Shekwagu appealed for further support in providing furniture, computers, and classroom renovations to enhance the school’s learning environment.

Salamatu Manjalo, representative of the universal basic education board (UBEB), commended CCDI and the Swiss embassy for supporting foundational education in the FCT, urging the school to ensure proper maintenance of the facilities.

Also present at the event were community leaders, including Abdullahi Haruna Magaji, head of the Sheritti community, who expressed gratitude to CCDI and the Swiss embassy.

Jasper Ogbonna, a member of CCDI’s board of trustees, said the investment would have a lasting impact on the lives of the pupils.

“When you see these young children excelling in life, becoming important people, know that it started from here — what CCDI and the Swiss Embassy are doing today,” Ogbonna said.