Empowered teachers spark hygiene revolution

At least 600 teachers across Rakai, Ibanda, and Kisoro districts are now at the forefront of a transformative health initiative — thanks to the Hygiene Quest Program, a partnership between Reckitt and Chil-AI Lab.

This program is revolutionizing hygiene education by equipping educators with the skills and knowledge to instil lifelong hand-washing habits in young learners.

Backed by Reckitt, the global health and hygiene company behind Dettol, the campaign is turning classrooms into community health hubs — placing teachers at the heart of behavioural change in rural Uganda.

“Teachers are powerful influencers,” said Dr. Shamim Nabuuma, the program coordinator. “If they understand the science and importance behind hand washing, they can help shape healthy behavior that lasts a lifetime. This is about more than soap and water — it’s about dignity, community well-being, and long-term disease prevention.”

Hands-on learning for sustainable change

More than 400 teachers have already completed the training, which uses a Practical Approach to Behavioural Change. The program includes interactive sessions such as role plays, hygiene-themed poetry, and demonstrations. Teachers also receive hygiene kits and guidance on how to seamlessly integrate hygiene education into their daily lessons — not just as an extra subject, but as part of everyday learning.

In Rakai District, where poor sanitation is a persistent challenge, the initiative has been warmly received. Educators are learning to teach children not just when to wash their hands, but why it’s critical — embedding these lessons into daily school routines.

“Hygiene education shouldn’t end at the classroom door,” said Rogers Nasiimwa, one of the lead trainers. “We’re encouraging teachers to become community champions. When children understand the importance of hand washing, they pass that knowledge on to siblings, parents, and neighbours.”

A strategic approach

While hand washing may seem simple, public health experts know it’s a complex issue — especially in rural areas with limited access to clean water, soap, and adequate facilities.

That’s why the Hygiene Quest Program doesn’t stop at training. It helps schools develop hygiene action plans, provides essential infrastructure like tippy taps, and supplies soap for sustained use. The program also monitors progress and builds accountability through school management, headteachers, and local education officials.

“We’re not just preaching hygiene — we’re making it practical and sustainable,” said Musinguzi, another project coordinator. “The support of school leadership and parents is crucial to lasting change.”

Real results, real impact

In Ibanda, the results are already visible. Teachers report increased student awareness, fewer cases of stomach ailments, and reduced absenteeism. “Children now remind each other to wash their hands. It’s become second nature,” said Justine Byaruhanga, a P5 teacher at Nyarukiika Primary School in Ibanda district.

In Kisoro, the program has even reached remote hilltop schools, a move that local leaders applaud for its inclusivity. “It’s not just about urban areas — this program is for every child, no matter where they live,” said one local council member.

Voices from the classroom

Teachers themselves are reflecting on how the training has changed their approach:
“I thought I knew how to wash hands properly — but I realized we’ve been doing it wrong all along. This training came at the right time,” said Nabulya Resty, a teacher at Kakabajjo Primary School in Rakai.

“We’ve enjoyed the sessions. Using soap makes a big difference, and we’ll pass that knowledge to our learners,” added Lukwago Mathew of Kiziba Primary School.

“Soap removes all the dirt. Our pupils now understand that hand washing is one of the best ways to prevent disease. We’ll make it part of our teaching plans,” said Yudaya Mercy, a teacher at Kiziba Infant Primary School in Mweruka Rakai district.

Hygiene is a human right

The United Nations recognizes access to water and sanitation as a basic human right — yet for many Ugandan schools, it remains out of reach. Programs like Hygiene Quest aim to bridge this gap by empowering those who interact with children every day.

“As we expand into new districts, we hope to reach school cooks, health workers, and even local leaders,” said Nasiimwa. “For too long, hygiene education was left to chance. Now, it’s in the hands of those who shape the next generation — the teachers.”