Some of us can’t hear. Take a second to imagine the limitations, even more when it is dark and there is no light to communicate in sign language. These and other challenges were very real for the 180 deaf children that attend this special school and live in the dedicated hostel. Reliable electricity and water access now help to overcome these challenges on a daily basis.
Project summary
The need
Previously, the hostel faced challenges due to unreliable electricity. The lack of proper lighting hindered communication, reading, and learning after sunset, making it difficult for students to study and engage in after school activities. Additionally, access to safe water was limited, requiring students; especially girls to fetch water from an external borehole, posing safety risks and consuming valuable study time.
The solution
A 3.6 kWp photovoltaic solar system with 7.2 kWh battery storage was installed, providing reliable electricity for the hostels. This system powers lights in all six hostel buildings, a large fridge in the hostel kitchen for food storage, and three freestanding solar lights for enhanced security. Additionally, the solar system powers a DC water pump, which supplies water to storage tanks, hostel pipework, and taps, ensuring safe and convenient water access.
Impact
With reliable electricity, 238 students can now communicate, read, and study effectively after sunset, enhancing educational opportunities. The improved lighting has increased safety within the six hostels and around the premises. Access to safe water on campus has improved hygiene and reduced health risks for all students. The elimination of long trips to fetch water has given students an additional 2–3 hours per day for studying, leading to a notable improvement in academic performance. The installation of three freestanding solar lights has further enhanced security, creating a safer living and learning environment for the students. This project contributes to SDGs 4, 6 and 7
Impact story
Success of Solar at Mua School For the Deaf
“Our hostel used to be in darkness, making it difficult for our students to communicate in sign language. Fetching water was a heavy, time-consuming task, often unsafe at night. Now, thanks to Sopowerful Foundation, we have a solar power system and a reliable water system. The students are using lights for communication and studying, and we have running water for…”