By Onwa Ekor
In commemoration of the 2025 global handwashing day and desirous to promote hygiene while saving lives, the Cross River chapter Network of Female Professionals in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (FEMinWASH), in collaboration with the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and the State Planning Commission (SPC), recently carried sensitisation visit to Government Primary School, Ikot Mbo, Tinapa Road, Calabar.
The event, aimed at promoting hygiene and behavioural change among schoolchildren, featured practical demonstrations on effective handwashing techniques, interactive sessions, and goodwill messages from key development partners.
Commissioner for Water Resources, Barr. Mensah Bassey, remarked that access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene remains a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of public health.
Represented by Mr Aneja Tawo, he revealed that the Ministry is exploring surface-water supply solutions for schools facing underground-water challenges.
He pledged continued partnership with FEMinWASH, SUBEB and other stakeholders to extend similar initiatives to more schools and communities across the state.
On her part, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Edema Irom represented by Dr Helen Ejue, described the pupils as “handwashing heroes,” cautioning them to always maintain good personal hygiene.
SUBEB Chairman, Retired Magistrate Fidelia Okpo Ene, affirmed that the event aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on good health and sanitation.
Represented by the Director of Quality Assurance, Mr. Archibong Okon, the SUBEB boss pointed out that the board as part of her achievement, provided water facilities in several schools and plans to add toilets and laboratories to others to improve learning environments.
She urged teachers to make handwashing a habit among pupils, informing that, “In SUBEB, we say, if you don’t wash your hands, don’t eat.”
In her keynote address, the State Chairperson of FEMinWASH, Mrs Iquo Eyo, reaffirmed the network’s commitment to promoting gender inclusion in WASH services and empowering women to lead hygiene advocacy.
She acknowledged the support of Self Help Africa (SHA) and appreciated the National President of FEMinWASH, Dr Bolu Onubolu, for the visionary leadership and national guidance that has continued to inspire state chapters.
Head Teacher of PCN Primary School, Mrs Offiong Eyo Morris, appreciated the organisers for selecting her school to host the event, appealing for improved security following vandalism of school facilities.
To encourage sustained hygiene practice, FEMinWASH donated a handwashing station and an instructional poster demonstrating proper handwashing steps to the school.
Global Handwashing Day, celebrated annually on October 15, raises awareness about handwashing with soap as one of the most affordable and effective ways to promote health and save lives.
