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Geography Project: Shortage of Clean Water at Budiriro 2 High School
1. Stage 1: Problem Identification
1.1. Identify a Problem
There is a shortage of clean water at Budiriro 2 High School, affecting students and staff.
1.2. Problem Description
The school lacks a consistent and safe water supply, leading to:
Poor sanitation and hygiene.
Disruptions in school activities (e.g., cooking, cleaning, drinking).
Increased risk of waterborne diseases.
1.3. How, Where, When
Location: Budiriro 2 High School, Harare, Zimbabwe.
Time: Ongoing issue, worsening during dry seasons.
Situation: The school relies on unreliable municipal water and has no backup supply.
1.4. Statement of Intent
To provide a sustainable clean water solution for the school.
1.5. How to Solve
Research, design, and implement a water conservation or alternative supply system.
1.6. Design
Plan for rainwater harvesting, borehole drilling, or water purification methods.
1.7. Materials Needed
Storage tanks, pipes, filters, digging tools, funding, community support.
2. Stage 2: Developing Solutions
2.1. Existing Solutions
Currently, the school relies on:
Municipal water (unreliable).
Buying bottled water (expensive).
Fetching water from distant sources (time-consuming).
2.2. Three Proposed Solutions
Rainwater Harvesting System – Collecting and storing rainwater.
Borehole Drilling – Digging a well for groundwater access.
Water Purification Filters – Installing filters to clean available water.
2.3. Advantages & Disadvantages
Solution
a) Rainwater Harvesting
Advantages
- Low cost after setup.
- Sustainable.
- Reduces reliance on municipal water.
Disadvantages
- Requires large storage tanks.
- Maintenance needed.
- Dependent on rainfall.
b) Borehole Drilling
Advantages
- Consistent water supply.
- Long-term solution.
- Can serve the whole school.
Disadvantages
- Requires technical expertise.
- May need permits.
- High initial cost.
c) Water Purification
Advantages
- Improves water safety.
- Affordable filters available.
- Quick to implement.
Disadvantages
- Needs regular replacement of filters.
- Still relies on existing water sources.
- Doesn’t increase water quantity.
3. Stage 3: Generation of Ideas
3.1. Brainstorming Ideas
Combining rainwater harvesting with purification.
Partnering with NGOs for borehole funding.
Educating students on water conservation.
3.2. Chosen Solution
Rainwater Harvesting + Purification (Most cost-effective and sustainable).
3.3. Refined Solution
Install gutters, storage tanks, and basic filters for clean water.
3.4. Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages:
Uses natural rainfall.
Reduces costs in the long run.
Improves water quality with filters.
Disadvantages:
Initial setup cost.
Requires maintenance.
Limited water in dry seasons.
4. Stage 4: Implementation
4.1. Action
Install gutters on school roofs.
Set up storage tanks and connect filtration systems.
4.2. Build/Test
Construct the system and test water quality.
4.3. Observe
Monitor water levels and usage efficiency.
5. Stage 5: Data Presentation
5.1. Present Results
Use of water in Community
5.2. Is It Functional?
Yes, if tanks fill adequately and water is clean.
6. Stage 6: Evaluation & Recommendation
6.1. Challenges
Funding limitations.
Delays in installation.
6.2. Achievements
Improved water access.
Increased student hygiene awareness.
6.3. Recommendations
Seek government/NGO support for expansion.
Regular system maintenance.
Educate students on water conservation.
6.4. Conclusion
The rainwater harvesting system provides a sustainable solution to Budiriro 2 High School’s
water shortage. With proper maintenance and community involvement, this project can ensure
long-term clean water access.
