Water & Sanitation Schools are supposed to be safe environments for children to learn in. However, many of our schools are still lacking in basic latrine facilities. The result is that children are often exposed to diarrheal diseases, hampering their ability to concentrate in their studies. According to district health authorities, diarrheal illnesses contribute to 48% of child mortality. Disease spreads quickly in cramped spaces with limited ventilation, where hand-washing facilities or soap are not available, and where toilets are in disrepair. Too often, schools are places where children become ill. The lack of latrines is also a particular challenge for girls who are often forced to quit school when they reach adolescence because of lack of privacy when going to the toilet. Having safe and clean latrine facilities will reduce open defecation; the spread of diseases; and the contamination of the local environment.