Handwashing with soap and water is among the easiest and most effective methods to prevent the spread of germs and maintain good health. This simple practice can significantly reduce the risk of diseases and respiratory infections, including the common cold and flu.
However, certain regions in Fiji face challenges in accessing proper hand hygiene facilities, leading to limited availability of soap and water. In response to this issue, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services recently visited five schools in the Province of Tailevu to provide free handwashing soap and water tanks.
During the visit, National WASH Coordinator Vuniwai Jikosaya Toga served as the chief guest at Wailotua District School, where he inaugurated handwashing stations. Mr. Toga, along with Ministry of Education’s WASH Consultant Emosi Jale, officially launched the school’s wash project.
The initiative included the installation of eight handwashing stations, funded by the WASH Program at a total cost of $2,627.55, which will benefit 88 students and four teachers. Additionally, Dawasamu District School received two 5,200-liter water tanks aimed at enhancing sanitation practices for students.
School head Tomasi Macedru expressed gratitude, noting that the new water tanks would help alleviate the water shortage issues the school often experiences. Although the school has a natural water source, it tends to dry up during extended dry spells. Mr. Macedru emphasized that the free soaps provided by the WASH Team would also enable students to wash their hands more effectively.
Elia Leweniqila, head boy at Waidalice District School, echoed this sentiment, stating that the water tanks would promote good handwashing hygiene among students at their school.