Driving Change: Training Women in Plumbing for Community Impact
- 08/03/2024
Today marks International Women’s Day! Women play pivotal roles as change agents within our communities. Recognizing their importance, their involvement in the management and upkeep of sanitation facilities must be ensured. Sanitation for Millions not only trains individuals like muezzins and caretakers but also offers basic plumbing training to local communities, prioritizing the empowerment of women. Join us as we shadow Rasha during her participation in a recent training session.
Many households in Jordan still struggle to access clean water and sanitation. To improve the lifespan and quality of these sanitary facilities, one of the cornerstones of Sanitation for Millions in Jordan is the provision of basic plumbing training, which aims to equip individuals with the skills needed to undertake household repairs and ensure access to clean water.
Rasha recently attended a Sanitation for Millions plumbing skills training in Jordan. Upon arrival at the training, she was unsure whether she would feel comfortable attending a plumbing training as it is typically seen as a man’s job. But as she walked into the room, Rasha noticed that she was surrounded by other women who were eager to learn how to fix their own toilets if they had a leak. In the middle of the room were tools on the table, some she’d never seen before. Rasha took a deep breath and felt a sense of empowerment and solidarity as she joined the other women around the table. The trainer, an experienced plumber, greeted her warmly, breaking the ice with a reassuring smile.
“Good morning, ladies,” the plumber began. “Today, we’re going to learn some essential plumbing skills that will help you tackle common household issues. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, a clogged drain, or a malfunctioning toilet, you’ll be equipped to handle it.”
Rasha felt a surge of enthusiasm as the instructor demonstrated how to use each tool effectively. They were introduced to different types of pilers, chisels, pipes, and valves. She eagerly took notes, determined to absorb as much knowledge as possible. The instructor showed the group how to detect a water leakage from pipes and how to maintain and fix a water faucet. As the day progressed, Rasha found herself growing more confident with each new techniques she learned.
During the hands-on portion of the training, Rasha and her fellow participants worked together to practice what they had been taught. They cheered each other on, celebrating small victories and offering encouragement when challenges arose. Despite her initial doubts, Rasha felt a sense of empowerment as she was able to conduct the right steps in fixing a faucet.
By the end of the training, Rasha emerged with newfound skills and a renewed sense of purpose. She was no longer intimidated by the idea of tackling plumbing repairs; instead, she felt confident to take control of her home’s maintenance. With a toolbox in hand and a network of supportive peers by her side, Rasha was ready to make a difference in her community. She felt capable as she knew that when her friends or neighbours need help fixing their faucet, Rasha would be able to help.
What’s Rasha’s takeaway from the training? “After completing the basic plumbing training provided by the Sanitation for Millions project, I feel empowered to tackle household repairs on my own. With this newfound knowledge, I can ensure clean water flows, which helps to create a safer and healthier environment for my family. “
Find out more about Sanitation for Millions’ Trainings on Operation and Maintenance here:
Authors: Lea Kilter & Laura Kieweg
