MAGALANG -- Some 2,084 school children from several barangay elementary schools in this town will benefit from the Rotary Club of Magalang’s “Wash” project.
Recently, RC Magalang, in partnership with Offisynergy Inc. and in collaboration with the Department of Education, constructed and completed five-faucet hand-washing facilities in several barangay elementary schools here.
The objective of Rotary’s Water Sanitation and Hygiene “Wash” project is to improve sanitation and hygiene practices among learners and develop in them lifelong positive sanitation and hygiene behaviors.
The hand-washing stations were installed in the areas where they will best serve the pupils – before eating, after playing and especially after using the toilet.
During the turnover ceremony held at the San Isidro Resettlement Elementary School, the teachers emphasized the importance of proper hygiene practices to prevent illnesses and reduce absenteeism, thus, improving academic productivity.
They demonstrated to parents and pupils the right way of tooth brushing and washing hands with soap and clean water.
In the initial stage of the project, a committee was formed which is composed of community leaders and the heads and teachers of beneficiary schools.
According to RC Magalang president Terry Balatbat, the committee will be responsible for the proper use and maintenance of the facilities to ensure the sustainability of the project.
Balatbat said that he initiated partnerships with International Rotary Clubs to secure funding so that his club can provide hand-washing stations to all the 27 barangay schools in Magalang.
“Our club is committed,” he said, “to creating a bigger impact in our community”.
Aside from the “WASH” project, the Rotary Club of Magalang also conducted community services focusing on the environment, maternal and child health, basic education and literacy, and healthcare.
The club is also known for the Rotary Welcome Wheel markers that are installed in all the strategic entrances to the town of Magalang. (PR)