In conjunction with the AMAR International Charitable Foundation (AMAR), GardaWorld purchased and funded the installation costs of 31 water coolers in 13 schools serving over 3,000 students, in the town of Badra, Wassit province, Iraq. 

AMAR conducted a needs assessment in the area so we could choose a project that would be of most benefit to the local community. Following the assessment, we agreed that the installation of water coolers in Badra’s schools would be the best outcome. The water coolers were purchased in April 2016, and we specifically selected a model that incorporates a water purification filter to ensure the water is cleaned and filtered as well as refrigerated.

We additionally provided training to the schools on how to manage and maintain their coolers. Staff from each school were taught about the way the coolers and particularly the filtration system works and how to clean the units. The trainers also described how and when to change the water filters to maximise their efficiency and life span.

Children from all the schools were delighted to receive the water coolers and expressed their happiness to our staff. One boy, named Haider, thanked GardaWorld for providing the water coolers which meant he no longer had to carry water from home as he used to have to. Another student, Tiba, said she was so excited to have clean, cold water available all the time, as it would stop her from being thirsty while she was at school. One young boy expressed his joy and happiness as soon as he saw the coolers, saying ‘May God be kind to you for your generosity, GardaWorld and AMAR!’. He was relieved to know that now the water he drank was cleaner, he did not have to be afraid any longer of getting sick.

Students and teachers can stay now stay properly hydrated without worrying that they may become ill from mains drinking water which can be contaminated. The availability of cold water during the summer months will also help students to study despite the often extremely high temperatures. And by training janitorial staff in each school to maintain the coolers and change the filters, GardaWorld and AMAR have ensured that children studying in Badra will have clean cold water for years to come.

For more information on this project, please contact Daniel Matthews our Regional Director, Central Iraq.