Through our Sanitation Enhancement project, Collaborating Against Poverty (CAP) Liberia conducted thorough assessments in target schools to identify the most pressing sanitation needs. These assessments included evaluating existing facilities, understanding the availability of sanitary materials, and gauging students’ knowledge of hygiene practices.
Leveraging the support of our community, we initiated a donation drive to collect sanitary materials such as soap, hand sanitizers, tissue papers, sanitary pads, and cleaning supplies.
Through effective communication channels and outreach efforts, we mobilized individuals and organizations to contribute to our cause.
Once the donations were collected, we organized distribution events at the target schools.
Our dedicated staff and volunteers assisted in providing public health education, placement of hygiene posters to promote awareness and donation of sanitary materials to improve hygiene practices in secondary schools in Liberia.
Alongside the distribution efforts, we conducted interactive workshops to educate teachers about the importance of proper sanitation and hygiene practices. These workshops included demonstrations on hand washing techniques, discussions on menstrual hygiene management, and sessions on maintaining clean surroundings
By promoting regular hand washing and menstrual hygiene management, the project has contributed to reducing the spread of diseases and infections among students. This has led to fewer instances of absenteeism due to illness. The project has significantly improved hygiene standards in the target schools. Students now have better access to essential hygiene products and are more aware of proper sanitation practices.
The project fostered a sense of community involvement, with individuals and organizations coming together to support a common cause. This collaboration highlights the importance of collective efforts in addressing societal challenges. Through education and access to sanitary materials, students, especially girls, feel empowered to manage their hygiene needs confidently. This has positively impacted their self-esteem and academic performance.
We are partnering with school authorities to sustain the project; we have developed a maintenance plan for the sanitation facilities. We regularly inspect and replenish sanitary materials to help sustain the improved hygiene standards. We have trained teachers and school staff to conduct hygiene awareness sessions independently. This builds the capacity of schools to continue promoting proper sanitation practices beyond the duration of our project.
Additionally, we continue to engage the community through awareness campaigns and volunteer opportunities to foster a sense of ownership and encourage ongoing support for maintaining hygiene standards in schools.
The project to improve sanitation in schools through the donation of sanitary materials has made significant strides in enhancing hygiene standards and empowering students. Through collaborative efforts and community support, we have positively impacted the health and well-being of students, paving the way for a brighter and healthier future.