By HeapNews
The Health Policy Research Group (HPRG) has launched Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) clubs in public schools across Okpoko community, Ogbaru Local Government Area, to improve hygiene practices and prevent disease outbreaks.
Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. Uche Ezenwaka, Principal Investigator of the HPRG and WASH Project, emphasized that the initiative would nurture young advocates for proper sanitation, thereby fostering long-term public health improvements.
“Instilling these healthy habits early can create a ripple effect, leading to healthier students, communities, and a decline in preventable diseases,” Ezenwaka said.
The WASH project, implemented by HPRG of the University of Nigeria in collaboration with the Anambra State Ministry of Health and Chorus Research on Urban Health, seeks to address alarming hygiene concerns in Okpoko, described as the worst slum in the Southeast.
A 2024 study conducted by HPRG in the community revealed widespread open defecation, indiscriminate refuse dumping, and unsafe water sources, leading to high rates of diarrhea and other waterborne diseases.
“We recognized urban slums as major contributors to WASH challenges. That’s why we’ve been training sanitation officers, teachers, and community leaders. We also set up committees to safeguard public boreholes from vandalization and ensure clean water access,” Ezenwaka explained.
Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Chidinma Nwankwo, a representative of the Post Primary School Service Commission in Anambra State, announced that WASH clubs would become mandatory in schools across the state.
“This initiative aligns with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision for urban renewal and a healthier, greener Anambra,” Nwankwo stated.
Teachers in attendance welcomed the initiative, pledging to sustain hygiene awareness among students.
“We believe that promoting better hygiene practices will reduce absenteeism caused by illnesses, allowing our students to attend school regularly,” said Mrs. Goodness Iyiegbu of Faith Model Schools, Okpoko.
Participating schools included Unity Comprehensive High School, St. Michael Model Schools, Faith Model Schools, and Assemblies of God Schools.
To kickstart the initiative, schools received WASH materials such as handwashing buckets, detergents, liquid soaps, flyers, and signboards promoting safe hygiene practices.