The Cross River State Government has commissioned solar-powered boreholes in three public schools as part of activities marking the 2026 World Water Day celebration in the state.
The benefiting schools are Big Qua Girls’ Secondary School, Edgerley Memorial Girls’ Secondary School, and Government Primary School, Academy.
Speaking during the commissioning, Governor Bassey Edet Otu said the initiative aligns with his administration’s commitment to expanding access to clean and sustainable water across the state.
The Governor, represented by the Vice Chairman of the State Planning Commission, Dr. Bong Duke, emphasized the government’s resolve to strengthen water infrastructure, particularly in educational institutions.
“Access to potable water is essential not only for public health but also for creating a conducive learning environment for students,” he stated.
He commended the Ministry of Water Resources for the initiative, noting that the solar-powered boreholes provide a sustainable solution to water challenges in schools.
“These projects will significantly improve hygiene, reduce waterborne diseases, and support the overall well-being of students and staff,” he added.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Water Resources, Barr. Bassey Mensah, explained that the selection of girls’ schools for the intervention reflects the theme of this year’s celebration, “Water and Gender,” with the sub-theme, “Where Water Flows, Equality Grows.”
He highlighted the relevance of the theme, noting that in many communities, the responsibility of fetching water disproportionately falls on girls and women.
According to him, the installation and solarization of the boreholes align with global efforts to promote renewable energy and sustainable water management practices.
He, however, urged the school authorities to ensure proper maintenance of the facilities, particularly the solar panels and pumping systems.
Responding on behalf of the benefiting schools, the Principal of Edgerley Memorial Girls’ Secondary School, Dr. (Mrs.) Ekei Duke, expressed appreciation to the state government for the intervention.
She described the provision of solar-powered water systems as transformative, noting that it guarantees 24-hour access to water and will greatly enhance sanitation and hygiene within the schools. She also pledged the schools’ commitment to proper use and maintenance of the facilities.
The event featured sensitization talks on water, sanitation, and menstrual hygiene, as well as drama presentations and cultural displays.
The highlight of the occasion was the official commissioning of the solar-powered boreholes by the Governor’s representative.
It would be recalled that while Edgerley Memorial and Big Qua Girls’ Secondary Schools had existing boreholes that were upgraded with solar systems, the facility at Government Primary School, Academy, was newly constructed and fully solarized by the Ministry of Water Resources.
Jeno Richard Odu
