12-year-old Jazel used to worry about something most students should never have to think about: using the school toilet. Their school in Eshperovo, Kyrgyzstan were in extremely poor condition. There were no doors, no separate stalls, no running water, and only holes in the ground. Winters were unbearably cold, rainy days made the toilets unsafe, and privacy was almost impossible.
For many girls like Jazel, this meant discomfort, embarrassment, and regular absences, especially during their menstrual period.
Recognizing these challenges, Good Neighbors Kyrgyzstan began building modern, gender-sensitive, and disability-inclusive toilets in two rural schools, including Jazel’s. The goal was to ensure that every child could learn in a safe and supportive environment. A professional construction company designed the new facilities to reflect students’ needs, with attention to hygiene, accessibility, and dignity.
We used to use a toilet that had no proper conditions. Now, there is everything we need, hot and cold water, and special conditions for girls.
Now, Jazel’s school has clean and well-lit toilet blocks with stalls for girls, including a dedicated menstrual hygiene stall with extra space, a shelf for personal items, and a disposal bin. Boys have their own section with stalls and urinals. There is also an accessible stall designed for students with disabilities, complete with handrails, a wider doorway, and a smooth entrance. Every stall is equipped with a handheld bidet shower, and each section has sinks with running water and mirrors to encourage proper hygiene.
For Jazel and her classmates, this change means more than upgraded infrastructure. It has brought confidence, comfort, and safety. Girls attend class more regularly. Students no longer avoid drinking water to skip bathroom breaks. Teachers report fewer absences during winter and rainy periods.
Most importantly, students feel respected and taken care of. “Thank you so much to Good Neighbors. I am very grateful,” Jazel said with a proud smile.
You can help more children experience safe, dignified school facilities.
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Good Neighbors is an international humanitarian and development organization founded in 1991, working in over 50 countries to make the world a place without hunger and where people live in harmony. Engaging with over 200 communities globally, we empower people and transform communities through social and economic development initiatives. Good Neighbors has General Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UN ECOSOC) since 1996.
For further information, please contact Good Neighbors Global Partnership Center.
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