By Chinenye Anuforo
The Rector Cares Foundation, in collaboration with the Poul Due Jensen Foundation/Grundfos, has launched a transformative initiative to uplift the Ibeku community in Abia State.
The project, according to the Rector Cares, aims to tackle the pressing issues of water scarcity, food insecurity, and inadequate educational infrastructure, directly impacting over 10,000 residents, including the students and staff of Ibeku High School.
With a staggering 80% of the Ibeku population lacking access to clean water, the project has introduced sustainable solutions, including the construction of a 500-ft borehole fitted with Grundfos solar submersible pumps, solar panels, and a 12,000-liter tank system. Water is reticulated through underground piping to schools and health centers, significantly reducing the distance residents must travel to fetch water.
According to Onyedikachi Erete, it’s founder, Rector Cares Foundation has also spearheaded a series of impactful upgrades at Ibeku High School, which serves over 1,500 students including construction of WASH-compliant toilet facilities equipped with handwashing stations, installation of sanitary pad distribution stands for female students, addressing menstrual hygiene challenges, renovation of the chemistry laboratory and school gate and scholarships for deserving students through the NKUZI STEM Initiative.
Beyond Ibeku High School, Erete said, the initiative has brought significant improvements to the broader Ameke Ibeku community, including renovating classrooms, staff rooms, and the library with new furniture, electrical installations, laptops, and a projector. The foundation also implemented drilling of a solar-powered borehole and establishment of water storage and distribution systems and provided school supplies, including bags and books, to students.
Speaking on the impact of the project, Erete, emphasized the alignment of the initiative with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on clean water, quality education, and good health.
“This project is about more than just infrastructure; it’s about empowering residents to build a thriving future for themselves and generations to come,” Erete stated.
Dr. Sunday Chukwudi Okoro, Lead Engineer at Grundfos, highlighted the technical excellence and sustainability of the water systems implemented, while Engr Ernest Nwachukwu, Senior Key Account Manager at Grundfos, praised the collaboration as a model for solving critical community challenges.
Representing the Abia State Government, Engr Prince Ikechukwu reaffirmed the administration’s support for projects that advance the well-being of citizens, commending Rector Cares Foundation and Grundfos for their impactful work.