At Squads Abroad Panama, we believe that access to safe and dignified sanitation is not just about infrastructure—it’s about creating a healthier and more promising future for children. This belief was at the heart of a recent project at Boca de Chiguiri School, where Juan Poveda, an engineer with Squads Abroad, worked alongside the community to improve sanitation and hygiene facilities. 

Before the project, students were using outdated latrines that lacked basic hygiene conditions. Now, thanks to this initiative, the school has modern sanitary blocks equipped with toilets, showers, and handwashing stations. More than just a construction effort, this project was designed with a gender-sensitive approach, ensuring that girls, in particular, have access to safe and private facilities. This not only upholds their dignity but also reduces school dropouts linked to poor hygiene conditions.

A key factor in the project’s success was the involvement of the local community. From decision-making to hands-on labor, parents and teachers took part in making this transformation a reality. Overcoming challenges such as logistical constraints and structural adjustments, the project was completed in October, setting the stage for long-term sustainability and ongoing hygiene education efforts.

A School on the Rise

This image captures the condition of the school bathrooms before. Broken fixtures, poor sanitation, and an overall unsafe environment made it difficult for students. Thankfully, efforts were made to improve these conditions.

The improvements at Boca de Chiguiri School extend beyond sanitation. In recent years, the school has seen significant support from various institutions such as the Ministry of Education’s “Estudiar sin Hambre” program, which has helped equip the school with solar-powered refrigerators, stoves, and an upgraded kitchen; Club Kiwanis Libertad has played a crucial role in improving the dining facilities as well. 

Additionally, inspiring Squads Abroad chapters McKenzie Center for Innovation and Tech, Si Panama, Turning Winds, River Valley High School and Chaminade College Preparatory School- comprise young high school students dedicated to supporting children through interactive education and hard work. Their efforts motivate students to see school as an opportunity for growth and success.

These changes have had a direct impact on student enrollment. More families are now choosing to send their children to school, with enrollment projected to rise from 38 to 42 students next year. Some parents who had previously moved to Panama City for work are returning with their children, drawn by the improved learning environment.

One of the most encouraging outcomes is that there have been no reported dropouts in primary school. Previously, parents were hesitant to enroll younger children in preschool, but the upgraded facilities and a better learning environment have changed that. Now, more children are starting school at age four, and with two teachers available for primary grades, students are receiving more individualized attention.

Better sanitation has also led to noticeable health improvements. In the past, hygiene-related illnesses like diarrhea and vomiting kept many students out of school, particularly during the rainy season. But with access to proper restrooms, handwashing stations, and improved hygiene practices, absenteeism due to illness has significantly declined. Something as simple as having washbasins readily available has made a profound difference in preventing the spread of bacteria among students.

However, challenges remain. The school still lacks access to potable water, and during the dry season, the water supply becomes dangerously scarce. A water reserve tank is urgently needed to keep sanitation facilities functional year-round. Additionally, the infrastructure of the school requires further attention—aging roofs and rough floors in classrooms pose risks to both safety and health. Replacing them with smooth, dust-free flooring and stronger roofing would greatly enhance the learning environment.

Looking Ahead

Pictured here is the school principal (first from right to left), standing alongside dedicated parents and teachers who have played a crucial role in the school’s renovation projects.

While significant progress has been made, there is still work to be done. Hygiene education remains an area for improvement. At present, there is no structured program for teaching menstrual or oral hygiene, and while students are learning about handwashing, initiatives such as distributing toothbrushes for daily use could have a lasting impact.

Despite these challenges, the transformation at Boca de Chiguiri School is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration. The improvements have not only made the school a better place for students but have also strengthened community involvement. Parents are more engaged, and there is a shared sense of responsibility for maintaining the new facilities.

Projects like these highlight the importance of investing in public health and education. A safe and healthy school environment does more than just provide better infrastructure—it empowers children, encourages learning, and fosters hope for a brighter future. And that is exactly why we do what we do.

This photo showcases the school’s new bathrooms, now clean, safe, and modern. Improved facilities make a huge difference for students.