Safe Hands Foundation laments lack of running water in Rivers State schools, urging urgent hygiene infrastructure investments.
The Safe Hands Foundation has raised serious concerns regarding the severe lack of running water across public schools in Rivers State, making proper handwashing nearly impossible for students and teachers alike.
Dr Okolie Okechukwu, founder of the organization, revealed these troubling insights during a special workshop held in Port Harcourt on Thursday to commemorate the 2026 Global Handwashing Day themed 'Be a Handwashing Hero'.
To combat this pressing challenge, the foundation officially launched a dedicated water access project aimed at restoring potable water systems, according to information published by punchng.
Restoring Water Access in Public Schools
Dr Okolie Okechukwu explained that many public educational institutions suffer not from total structural failure, but from minor issues like leaking tanks, broken sumos, or a lack of reliable power supply.
He noted that an estimated budget ranging from ₦200,000 to ₦500,000 could easily restore functional water systems in many affected facilities, bringing back basic human rights and hygiene to young learners.
Preventing Infections Through Proper Handwashing
Describing proper handwashing as the absolute first line of defense against preventable infections, the foundation urged students and educators to treat the recent workshop as a vital call to action.
Community leader Sir Ben Ike reinforced this message during the event, warning that consuming food without thorough handwashing introduces harmful germs into the body and causes unnecessary illnesses.
Collaborating for Sustainable Hygiene Infrastructure
The foundation is actively seeking strategic partnerships with government agencies, private individuals, and corporate organizations to prioritize long-term hygiene infrastructure and education across the region.
Guest lecturer Prof. Golda Ekenedo also presented an insightful paper titled 'Skills-Based Advocacy for Handwashing', encouraging all key stakeholders to strongly support community advocacy initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Safe Hands Foundation?
The Safe Hands Foundation is an organization dedicated to promoting proper hygiene and providing running water infrastructure in public schools across Rivers State.
Why did the foundation urge the government to act?
The foundation urged governments in Rivers State to act because many public schools lack running water, making basic handwashing and hygiene difficult for students.
Who is Dr Okolie Okechukwu?
Dr Okolie Okechukwu is the founder of the Safe Hands Foundation, who announced a new water access project during Global Handwashing Day in Port Harcourt.
