The Agência Fiduciária de Administração de Projetos of the Government of São Tomé and Príncipe, in collaboration with the World Bank, is implementing the “Girls Empowerment and Quality Education for All Project.” This initiative is designed to equip girls with essential life skills and enhance student learning outcomes across the country. A key sub-component of this project focuses on improving Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) in schools, aiming to provide separate, clean, and safe facilities for both girls and boys.
The primary objectives of the WASH interventions are to reduce the prevalence of water-related diseases within the school community and decrease female absenteeism, ultimately improving overall access to services and promoting social well-being. To achieve this, the project will involve the rehabilitation and/or construction of water points, sanitary facilities, and stormwater management systems in 45 schools across three distinct project lots. These interventions will span schools located in the districts of Cauê, Mé-Zochi, Lobata, Lembá, and R. Aut. Príncipe, ensuring that rural sanitation needs are met and that students, particularly girls, have a healthier and more conducive learning environment.
ACE, appointed by the Agência Fiduciária de Administração de Projetos, has been tasked with preparing the Environment & Social Management Plan (ESMP) for the proposed works. This plan includes conducting a comprehensive gender-responsive environmental and socioeconomic baseline assessment to identify potential risks to both social livelihoods (men and women) and the environment. The ESMP will address significant gender issues, potential challenges, and alternatives related to each phase of the project. It will also explore a “No Action Alternative” and consider alternative climate-sensitive approaches.
Additionally, ACE has developed environmental and gender monitoring programs with clear indicators, allocated responsibilities, and estimated budgets for monitoring in accordance with both World Bank and national guidelines. This ensures that the project will be implemented with a strong focus on sustainability, social equity, and the well-being of all involved.
Copyright © 2025 Asian Consulting Enterprises Pte. Ltd. | All rights reserved