UNICEF Youth Leading in Water Resilience

Free State

1. Learning for Action: Water Quality Training

Qalabotjha, Villiers, situated in the Free State of South Africa, faces deep-rooted socio-economic challenges, including high unemployment, limited healthcare access, food insecurity, and a scarcity of natural resources. These issues are worsened by the increasing impacts of climate change. In response, WESSA introduced the Youth Leading in Water Resilience project in the region, focusing on building foundational water literacy among the youngest members of the community. Recognizing the value of early intervention, the project was implemented in five Early Childhood Development Centres (ECDs) and supported five local schools, including Zenzeleni Educare Centre. The programme aimed to instil basic water conservation principles through playful, sensory-based learning. During the launch at Zenzeleni on October 25th, 2024, 120 children engaged in water testing activities using child-friendly kits. Learners used their senses—sight, smell, and touch—to examine samples such as dirty river water, vinegar water, and clean tap water. These hands-on sessions helped children understand how to identify safe and unsafe water in an age-appropriate way. Simultaneously, 30 ECD practitioners were trained to implement water-saving lessons in their classrooms. Practical tools such as visual experiments and colouring activities (e.g. water cycle pages) were used to reinforce the concepts. On November 20th and 21st, WESSA extended the training to include teachers from the five participating schools and over 100

A lesson on the importance of water and hygiene at Thuto Ke Lesedi ECD.

community members. The two-day session combined an educational presentation on water testing kits with a practical workshop using test strips and equipment to measure parameters such as pH, chlorine, bacteria, and more. A follow-up support session was held on February 24th, 2025, where educators, ECD practitioners, and community members reconvened to reflect on their experiences and receive additional guidance. Schools represented included Zenzeleni Educare Centre, Villiers Primary, Maranatha Combined School, Ntshakala Secondary School, and Refeng Thabo Secondary School. Community members, particularly those from the Community Works Programme (CWP), demonstrated their ability to conduct tests confidently and share results.

Youth water quality testing training session in Villiers.

UNICEF Youth Leading in Water Resilience Report 2025 17