The foundation said some schools struggle to provide basic handwashing facilities because of faulty water pumps, leaking storage tanks and unreliable electricity, raising concerns about the ability of students to practise essential hygiene habits.

The founder of the organisation, Dr Okolie Okechukwu, raised the concerns at a workshop in Port Harcourt to commemorate the 2026 Global Handwashing Day, celebrated under the theme, “Be a Handwashing Hero.”

At the event, Okechukwu announced the launch of the foundation’s water access project, which is designed to improve access to running water for handwashing and hygiene in schools across Port Harcourt and other parts of Rivers State.

He explained that the initiative would involve partnerships with government agencies, private individuals and corporate organisations to restore water facilities and improve access to potable water in schools.

According to Okechukwu, some water-related problems in public schools could be resolved without major construction projects, as relatively modest repairs to damaged tanks, faulty pumps and other equipment could restore access to water in certain facilities.

He described the situation as a concern affecting children’s welfare and called for practical interventions to ensure that pupils can wash their hands and maintain basic hygiene while at school.

The foundation’s founder also stressed that proper handwashing is an important measure for reducing the spread of infections and preventing avoidable illnesses. He urged participants at the workshop to turn the lessons learnt into everyday habits at home, in classrooms and within their communities.

Okechukwu further appealed to government agencies, educational institutions, civil society groups, businesses and community leaders to work together to improve hygiene infrastructure and expand public awareness of proper handwashing.

He described students and young people as important advocates for good hygiene, encouraging them to share what they learnt with their peers and promote regular handwashing in their schools and neighbourhoods.

Also speaking at the event, community leader Sir Ben Ike urged participants to take hand hygiene seriously, noting that washing hands properly before eating can help reduce exposure to germs and lower the risk of illness.

Prof. Golda Ekenedo, a guest lecturer at the workshop, also emphasised the importance of advocacy in promoting proper handwashing. She delivered a presentation titled “Skills-Based Advocacy for Handwashing,” focusing on the role stakeholders can play in encouraging better hygiene practices.

The foundation’s initiative comes amid renewed calls for greater investment in water, sanitation and hygiene facilities in schools. Improved access to running water and functional handwashing points can help students and teachers maintain healthier learning environments.