The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has introduced mechanised boreholes at Bongo Dua Junior High School (JHS) and surrounding communities in the Bongo District, located in Ghana’s Upper East Region. This initiative aims to enhance access to clean and safe water for both the school and residents.
On July 17, 2025, Dr. Shafic Suleman, Executive Secretary of PURC, visited the newly completed facilities at Dua JHS, where he led a team to inspect the site. The project includes four mechanised boreholes connected to a 10,000-litre overhead tank, alongside five water dispensing points featuring three low taps and two overhead taps.
The new water facilities are expected to benefit over 4,500 residents, in addition to the 100 students at Dua JHS, by providing reliable access to clean water.
Dr. Suleman praised the school’s leadership for its commitment to student welfare and its ongoing dedication to maintaining the facilities. He highlighted the alignment of the project with PURC’s goal of expanding water service delivery to underserved communities, emphasising the Commission’s focus on providing sustainable and accessible water solutions to contribute to Ghana’s development.
Madam Atota Suzana, Headmistress of Dua JHS, called the intervention a game-changer, noting that it addresses long-standing issues faced by the school. “The strategically placed water sources within the school premises have improved access and fostered good hygiene practices, particularly handwashing,” she said.
Previously, students often left the school to fetch water, disrupting their classes. With water now available on-site, Madam Suzana remarked, “This has allowed students to stay focused on their studies, without unnecessary interruptions.” She assured that both staff and students would maintain the facilities to ensure their long-term use.
During his visit, Dr. Suleman and the PURC team received heartfelt appreciation from the students, who held up placards reading: “Water is life,” “He who provides water saves life,” and “Thank you for saving us from crossing the road to drink water; we are forever grateful.”
In addition to visiting the Dua JHS site, Dr. Suleman and his delegation toured other PURC interventions across the Bongo Dua community. The team included senior PURC officials such as Alhaji Jabaru Abukari, Director of Regional Operations and Consumer Services; Ing. Frederick Oblitey, Director of Energy Services and Performance Monitoring; Dr. Eric Obutey, Director of Research and Corporate Affairs; Mr. Kweku Tuffuor, Deputy Director of Northern Operations, Monitoring and Evaluation; and Dr. Robert Tia Abdulai Aziz, Head of Corporate Affairs.
PURC reiterated that this initiative is part of its broader effort to bridge the water access gaps in rural and underserved areas throughout Ghana.
