Handwashing with soap and water is one of the most effective methods to prevent the spread of germs and maintain health. This simple practice can significantly reduce the likelihood of diseases, including respiratory infections like the common cold and flu.
However, access to facilities for hand hygiene, such as soap and water, poses a challenge in certain regions of Fiji. In response, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services recently visited five schools in the Province of Tailevu to provide donations of handwashing soap and water tanks.
Vuniwai Jikosaya Toga, the National WASH Coordinator for the Ministry of Health, was the chief guest at the Wailotua District School, where he inaugurated the handwashing stations at the facility. Together with Emosi Jale, the WASH Consultant from the Ministry of Education, Mr. Toga launched the school’s wash project.
In total, eight handwashing stations, valued at $2,627.55 and funded by the WASH Program, were established to benefit 88 students and four teachers. Additionally, Dawasamu District School received two 5,200-liter water tanks aimed at promoting good sanitation among students.
School head Tomasi Macedru expressed that the new water tanks would help alleviate the water shortage issues that the school had been facing, noting that while there was a natural water source, it often dried up during prolonged dry spells. He also highlighted that the free soap provided by the WASH Team would assist students in effectively washing their hands.
Elia Leweniqila, the head boy at Waidalice District School, mentioned that the two 5,200-liter water tanks received by his school would play a key role in promoting good handwashing hygiene among the students.