UNICEF Youth Leading in Water Resilience

Challenge 5

Competing Teacher Responsibilities

Teachers were often overextended with core duties, delaying test result submissions and limiting follow-up activities.

Solutions Applied

Simplified data entry processes, provided templates, and offered regular reminders and check-ins to support teachers.

Lesson Learned

Provide user-friendly tools and align activities with the existing curriculum. Ensuring teachers feel supported rather than burdened increases participation and consistency.

Responding to Contaminated Water Results

Challenge 6

When tests showed signs of contamination, participants were unsure of what action to take, leading to confusion and concern.

Solutions Applied

WESSA provided guidance on re-testing, sterilisation protocols, and engaged in follow-up visits to assist schools and community members.

Lesson Learned

Develop a clear, simple response protocol for contaminated water results. Ensure schools and community groups know how to re-test and escalate concerns appropriately.

Technology and Internet Access

Challenge 7

In many areas, limited access to smartphones, internet connectivity, or digital literacy created barriers to uploading water quality data.

Solutions Applied

Offered offline options such as paper-based assessments and manual data collection. Teachers were supported in uploading results when connectivity allowed.

Lesson Learned

Always plan for low-tech environments by providing offline alternatives and data-light tools. Ensure educators are equipped to support digital processes when learners cannot.

Water education lesson at Qalabotjha Creche in Villiers.

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