Effective Hand-Washing Practices Can Reduce School Absenteeism by 50%, Says Ministry of Education
Zambia’s Ministry of Education has revealed that effective hand-washing practices can reduce absenteeism due to illness by up to 50% in schools. This announcement was made by Lusaka District Education Board Secretary (DEBS) Ian Miyoba during Global Hand-Washing Day celebrations at Kapwelyomba School, organized by BORDA Zambia.
Mr. Miyoba highlighted that maintaining good hygiene practices in schools helps prevent illnesses, enabling learners to attend school more regularly. He emphasized that schools that prioritize hygiene create an environment where children can thrive academically without the disruptions caused by preventable diseases.
“Good sanitation and hygiene in schools are not only about health but also about academic success. By equipping schools with the necessary resources, we are not only safeguarding the wellbeing of learners but also building lifelong habits that contribute to a healthier community,” said Miyoba.
He stressed the importance of providing clean water and proper sanitation infrastructure in schools to achieve these goals.
BORDA Zambia’s Country Director, Amanda Mallaghan, echoed these sentiments, adding that clean hands are essential for health, wellbeing, and productivity. Mallaghan discussed the ongoing WASH’n’soul Project, which has been working with 20 schools in Lusaka since 2021 to improve access to sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services.
The Project, implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and other stakeholders, is now entering its second phase, targeting 10 more schools in Lusaka to meet national WASH standards.
“The School-Based Sanitation Approach we use focuses on institutional strengthening, infrastructure development, and behavior change,” she explained, noting the continued need for improvements to meet Zambia’s Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Kundananji Mwamulima, an official from the Water Voices United project, commended the unity among WASH stakeholders in their efforts to improve hygiene and sanitation. She stressed the importance of collaboration and the need for increased funding and stronger policy decisions to support WASH initiatives.
This statement was issued by Zambia NGO WASH Forum Communications Officer, Bangwe Naviley Chisenga.
