Water
One of the key development issues of the next century is access to clean, safe water. Water - although a renewable resource - is increasingly threatened by industry, overuse, and privatization. Access to clean water for drinking, household use and agriculture is a critical development issue.
Members of the Mbini self-help group (SHG) in Machakos checking out their crude water tank to which them pump water up to from a nearby river to water their crops. Photo: McKay Savage.
MCIC`s Generating Momentum for Our World: Water for All conferences in 2008-09 focused on how access water impacts the health of people and communities. Students explored how access to water impacts health, education, and other development goals. View the conference resource here (link to conference resources).
Many students took action on the issue of privatization of water by creating `Bottled Water Free’ zones in their schools or classrooms.
Many of our member organizations support projects that improve access to clean water in the developing world. For example, IDE Canada supports programs that share appropriate technology like a foot-powered treadle pump and a simple water filtration system with farmers in the developing world.
Learn More
- Invite MCIC to your school to do a Water for All workshop.
- MCIC developed a resource kit for teachers complete with curriculum connections, additional information and various print, online, and video resources. Download your copy here.
Member Resources
The following resources are provided by MCIC members with regards to this issue:
Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace
“Life Before Profit” campaign aimed at youth groups and high schools. Lots of resources to help youth take action for access to water.
CHF
Extensive teaching resources for early years through high school on Water.
Engineers Without Borders
Invite EWB to do a “Water for the World” presentation at your school. Pre-and post activities available here.
World Vision
Extensive teaching resources for middle years and high school students, including a free flash animation called “Water for Life”.
