Tunisian Forum for Economic and Social Rights calls on the state to rebuild school infrastructure

In a report titled “Consequences of Lack of Environmental Justice and Impact of Climate Change on Other Rights”, released on April 18, the FTDS Environmental and Climate Justice Unit shed light on inequalities in public schools in different regions. This is reported by Tunis Afrique Presse, a partner of TV BRICS.

Among the main objectives of the forum is to provide schools with basic equipment, especially in the west-central regions. Most schools in these regions lack potable water and sanitation facilities. This will seriously affect children's learning achievement, their mental and physical health, and their right to live in dignity. The forum participants intend to put an end to these problems.

In addition, the responsible persons will address the sanitary conditions in primary schools in the west-central districts (Kairouan, Kasserine and Sidi Bouzid). These are necessary measures given that primary schools in the north of the country and in the Sahel region have an attendance rate of between 90 and 100 per cent.

The forum was also concerned that pupils in a number of schools with limited or no access to water are facing illnesses such as respiratory diseases and intestinal infections spread through unwashed hands. A range of measures are being developed to control infections and illnesses among pupils.

Participants of the forum emphasised that sanitation is needed in all schools without exception and they are ready to take additional measures, including the establishment of infirmaries in schools where water-related diseases are spreading.

The Forum also called on the state to fully participate in efforts to create green spaces in public school yards and keep them clean in collaboration with school staff and students. This needs to be given priority in poor and marginalised urban areas as well as in rural areas.

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