• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR.
As part of their long-standing advocacy, Negrosanon Young Leaders Institute (NYLI) finished its installation of the Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Hybrid System with Water Pump at Damutan Elementary School in Hinoba-an, Negros Occidental, which will benefit 167 enrolled students.
The project, made possible by the NYLI in partnership with the Department of Education Negros Occidental, provides students and educators with access to clean water by powering a water pump that supports the Gulayan sa Paaralan program of the school, also enhancing the feeding initiatives to combat malnutrition.
It also supports the school’s water, sanitation, and hygiene program, ensuring safe water for school and community use.
“We are thankful for the support of NYLI at Damutan Elementary School, and we call on everyone to take care of the said system because it is for us and for the whole Damutan, indeed, from the sun, for the children and community of Damutan…clean energy for water, learning, livelihood, and life,” Teacher-in-Charge Julibeth Jesalva said, as she expressed her gratitude to the advocates.
To ensure that the project will be maintained properly, the NYLI conducted a Solar PV Training program for over 40 stakeholders, including teachers, parents, and barangay personnel, who will take the lead to ensure long-term sustainability of the solar-powered water pump.
Furthermore, over 90 pupils attended a Community Education Session aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of renewable energy technologies within the local community.
The water pump was part of the NYLI’s bigger initiatives called ‘Project REConnect,’ which addresses energy poverty and empowers local communities to champion grassroots solutions to climate and environmental challenges.*
