Millions of poor masses still live their lives in abject poverty, with poor sanitation that results in an increase in deadly diseases.
In the fight against the spread of these disease, Thembinkosi LSEN School observed World Toilet Day on November 15.
Simon Molekwa, the event organiser from Life4u, said the day is observed on November 19, but since it fell on a Sunday they decided to host the event during the week.
“Toilets save lives, because failure to adhere to hygienic behaviour results in killer diseases infecting our schoolchildren.
“Today we are hosting the Toilet Day and hand-wash programme to teach children about toilet hygiene and hand-washing,” said Molekwa.
He said teaching children about the six steps to properly washing their hands with soap will help eliminate germs and disease.
“We run the programme in different schools around Tembisa and Ivory Park in partnership with the National Department of Water and Sanitation, the Ekurhuleni Department of Sanitation and the Kleenhealth organisation,” he said.
Life4u has to date worked with over 30 schools, offering a programme called wash4life.
“The response from teachers is positive because we are adding value to what the educators are already teaching their learners.
“Our goal is to expand the programme to other provinces,” he said.
Pearl Lediga from the Ekurhuleni Department of Sanitation said they are encouraging learners to take care of their toilets for sustained good health.
“They must not flush foreign objects like plastics, sanitary pads and papers.
“The only object that should be used in a toilet is toilet paper. This will reduce the frequent blockages of sewer systems.
“Pledge with us to save water. Water is life, every drop counts and sanitation is dignity,” said Lediga.
