The Impact of Water Shortages on the Provision of Education: A Case Study of Secondary Schools in Norton Urban, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Zimbabwean urban areas have been experiencing erratic water supplies for some years, impacting negatively on the livelihoods of its people. The study sought to establish the impact of water shortages on the provision of education in Norton, Zimbabwe. Water shortages have affected Norton residents for years and the need to understand the impact of water shortages on the provision of education in secondary schools influenced the researchers to carry out this study. This qualitative case study was informed by the Sustainable Livelihoods Approach (SLA). Purposive sampling was used to come up with a sample of 15 participants, comprising learners and teachers. Data were generated hrough semi-structured interviews and focus group interviews which were analysed thematically. The findings of the study established that the failure by the council to supply adequate water to schools has resulted in a lack of drinking water and poor sanitation. The study further revealed learners travel long distances in search of alternative sources of water, hence a lot of valuable time is lost. It also emerged that water shortages have disrupted agricultural activities in schools despite the introduction of Agriculture as a compulsory subject.