Two new handwashing stations were handed over to Chayaza Secondary School on Tuesday October 12 by the deputy minister of education, Dr Makgabo Reginah Mhaule. The facilities were funded by Woolworths through its partnership with Unicef South Africa and will improve hand hygiene for the more than 1 200 learners and 50 educational staff.
To date, the partnership with Woolworths has resulted in 72 new handwashing stations being installed in more than 50 schools across Gauteng, North West and Mpumalanga since the outbreak of Covid-19. The facilities have improved access to handwashing for some 32 000 learners and educational staff. “We are extremely grateful for this support from Woolworths and Unicef in improving access to handwashing facilities, particularly in rural schools,” said Mhaule during the handover ceremony at Chayaza Secondary School.
“Covid-19 has again highlighted the importance of washing of hands with soap to prevent the spread of diseases, and with these new facilities, learners and educators will be better protected.” The handover of the stations took place ahead of Global Handwashing Day on October 15, which was dedicated to remind people about the importance of washing hands with soap as an easy, effective and cheap way to prevent diseases and save lives. “Woolworths is committed to improving the learning environment for every child,” said Zinzi Mgolodela, the Woolworths director of corporate affairs.
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“Having access to clean water and sanitation at school gives children a healthier start in life and promotes well-being.” Good hand hygiene is proven to be one of the most important measures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, including bacterial, diarrhoeal and respiratory diseases, such as Covid-19. The support from Woolworths, Unicef and the Department of Basic Education played a vital role in the education sector’s Covid-19 response to mitigate the transmission of the pandemic and to keep schools as safe as possible.
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“It is critical that every learner and educator has access to decent handwashing facilities, which saves lives and helps to keep classrooms open during these Covid-19 days,” said Christine Muhigana, a Unicef South Africa representative. “This generous support will not only keep learners healthier and safer, but also support South Africa’s work towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 of ensuring access to water and sanitation for all by 2030,” Muhigana said.
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