Dettol, WBFA Empower Kwara Students as Hygiene Champions

In a move to instill lifelong hygiene habits among students, Dettol and its partner, the Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA), have inducted 88 students from Ilorin West Local Government Area, Kwara State, as ambassadors of the “Hygiene Quest” initiative.

The induction, which took place in Ilorin, marked a significant milestone in WBFA’s campaign to promote cleanliness, healthy living, and behavioural change among school children.

Addressing the gathering, Mr Williams Awotunde, Director of Programming at WBFA, described the initiative as a transformative step that goes beyond workshops. Represented by Mr Kehinde Akinsola, the National Programmes Manager, Awotunde explained that the programme aims to build a generation of students committed to promoting hygiene in their schools and communities.

“These students are not just participants, they are leaders and changemakers,” he said. “They will lead hygiene campaigns, demonstrate proper handwashing, and ensure WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) practices become the norm in their environments.”

He added that the Hygiene Quest Clubs being established in schools would sustain the momentum even after the formal training ends. “The students are to inspire their peers, engage their teachers, and influence their communities through hygiene advocacy,” he said.

Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development in Kwara State, Dr Lawal Olohungbebe, commended the initiative for its positive impact on student well-being. Represented by Mr Yisa Joshua, a Deputy Director in the ministry, he urged the students to become hygiene ambassadors both in and out of school.

“This programme will not only reduce absenteeism caused by illness but also improve the overall learning environment,” he noted.

Mrs Salmah Ahmed, an Assistant Director at the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), echoed the call for students to take the responsibility seriously. “You now carry a message that can protect your classmates and families. Take pride in that responsibility,” she said.

The event also featured a spelling bee competition, with winners emerging from both primary and secondary school categories. They will advance to compete against other local government winners for the title of Kwara’s best hygiene-focused school.

In support of the campaign, 44 schools received handwashing workstations to further equip the Hygiene Quest Clubs and reinforce daily hygiene practices.

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