WBFA Proposes Handwashing Practice in Curriculum to Shield Children from Diseases 

Ayodeji Ake

The Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA) has called for the adoption of simple practices, such as handwashing, in the school curriculum to protect children from infectious diseases and reduce the number of out-of-school children caused by sickness.

Speaking at the recent Agenda for Dettol Hygiene Quest Stakeholders’ Meeting, held in Lagos, the Director of Programming and Reporting, WBFA, Dr. Osinachi Onyeoziri, noted, although the foundation, in support of it strategic partners, has been able to reach over 200 schools, with plans to cover more schools, but adoption of handwashing in schools will reduces the burden of diseases.  

He said: “Hygiene and sanitation are more important, as they help create a better future. We have been committed for a long time to promoting RMNCAH+N. To build a future where everyone is healthy and happy. We have been working to develop a healthy structure, including hygiene.  We are also very particular about education. 

“The simplest practice of washing our hands is one of the practices we must emulate. Especially our children. We know they play around and touch things that can cause infections. We want them to remain in school and not outside because of infections. But teaching them how to wash their hands using clean water and taking care of their environment will help them to have a healthy lifestyle, to help them stay in school, and learn.

We are also advocating and proposing how we can make this program part of the school curriculum.

“We believe that prevention is better than a cure. We are very sure that simple actions like washing our hands regularly and keeping our environment clean can contribute to a healthy lifestyle. We are going to take a bold step to see how we can bring health education to our communities, schools, and families. Every child we reach has been protected, and every partnership has taken us closer to a healthy future in Nigeria.”

Speaking on challenges, Onyeoziri emphasized that funding remains the biggest challenge, saying the foundation is open to partners who are ready and committed to join the campaign to secure the future for the children.

The Lagos State Ministry of Health representative, Yeside Shogbaminu, during her goodwill message, applauded the WFBA for its campaigns in schools and communities against infectious diseases, and assured of continuous partnership.

“On behalf of the leaders of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, we want to commend the organizers and the implementation team. We are happy to be part of this initiative,” she said.