MICHAEL N
Students and staff of St. John’s School of Nursing and Midwifery, Rwashamaire, have urged the public to prioritize sanitation and hygiene as a key measure to prevent disease outbreaks.
The call was made today during a massive community cleaning exercise carried out in Ntungamo Town, which began at Fuelx Petrol Station and covered several streets before concluding at the Ntungamo Municipality Taxi Park. The activity was officiated by officers from the Uganda Traffic Police, Ntungamo Station, and featured lively performances from the Barras Band, which marched through the streets to rally public participation.
Later in the evening, the students extended their efforts to Rwashamaire Town, cleaning streets and collecting litter to demonstrate that cleanliness is an essential step in disease prevention.
Speaking during the exercise, Joel Musiime, one of the participating students, said their aim was to educate the public about the importance of sanitation in maintaining community health.
“We wanted to show people that keeping our towns clean is the best way to control disease outbreaks,” he said.
The Guild leaders of the school noted that, as future nurses, it is their responsibility not only to treat patients but also to promote hygiene and prevent illnesses through public sensitization. They added that such community activities also help students relieve academic fatigue while contributing to social well-being.
The leaders further urged the Ntungamo Municipality authorities to improve sanitation in slum areas and ensure proper drainage systems, noting that sewage accumulation in trenches poses serious health risks.
Alex Twekwase, the Public Relations Officer of St. John’s School of Nursing and Midwifery, explained that the cleaning initiative aimed to mobilize communities towards better hygiene practices.
“We wanted to encourage everyone to take part in sanitation drives and maintain public hygiene,” Twekwase said.
He also revealed that the school is preparing for its first-ever graduation ceremony for pioneer students since the institute’s establishment in 2007.
Barnabas Byaruhanga, the Principal of St. John’s School of Nursing and Midwifery, thanked the people of Ntungamo for their hospitality and participation.
“Nursing is not only about giving medicine but also about creating awareness and promoting cleanliness to prevent diseases,” he emphasized.
The sanitation drive was hailed by residents as a timely and impactful community initiative aimed at improving public health and inspiring civic responsibility.
