In a remarkable display of resilience and compassion, the Rotary Club of Melbourne has taken the lead in addressing the challenges faced by Dangan Elementary School in Isabela, Philippines, following the devastating typhoons Marce, Pepito, and Kristine. These storms wreaked havoc on the region, leaving widespread flooding, crop destruction, and health crises in their wake. Recognizing the urgent needs of the school community, Rotary Melbourne has embarked on an ambitious initiative to improve access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) while also promoting literacy, environmental sustainability, and economic development.
The initial focus of the Dangan Elementary School WASH project was to ensure access to clean water and improved sanitation and hygiene practices, incl/uding the rehabilitation of 15 toilet blocks. However, during the planning and mobilisation phase in September 2024, the extent of the school’s challenges became increasingly apparent. Children suffered from illnesses linked to malnutrition and low immunity, while the lack of essential learning materials hindered their educational growth.
In response, Rotary Melbourne expanded its vision to include literacy programs, environmental initiatives, and health-focused economic solutions.
Recognizing the transformative power of education, the project now includes an extensive literacy component. For the first time, Dangan Elementary School will have a dedicated library, equipped with:
Rotary Melbourne is also creating a vibrant and welcoming library space, complete with desks, chairs, shelves, and a cataloguing system to enable children to borrow books for general reading, homework, and class activities.
Beyond education, the project embraces environmental stewardship and community resilience. Fruit-bearing trees and vegetables will be planted on school grounds, improving air quality, reducing soil erosion, and promoting food security. These efforts will help regulate the water cycle and contribute to climate change mitigation by absorbing carbon dioxide.
The produce from these gardens will serve dual purposes:
Rotary Melbourne’s comprehensive approach ensures that the benefits of this initiative will ripple through the Dangan community, fostering a brighter future for generations to come. By addressing critical needs in education, health, and the environment, the project is empowering students, supporting teachers, and creating a sustainable foundation for growth and resilience.
As the fruit trees grow, the library shelves fill, and children explore new worlds through books, the impact of Rotary Melbourne’s efforts will stand as a testament to the power of collective action and a shared commitment to building a better tomorrow.
This is not just a project; it is a legacy of hope, learning, and renewal.
