In a heartwarming event on Global Handwashing Day, learners from Mabu-a-tlou Primary School in Pretoria had a thrilling experience playing Lifebuoy’s innovative H for Handwashing Games alongside renowned sports stars, Andile Dlamini and Siphiwe Tshabalala. The event aimed to reemphasize the significance of proper hand hygiene using the power of play, enlightening the young learners about the vital role handwashing plays in maintaining good health and well-being.
Global Handwashing Day, co-founded by Lifebuoy in 2008, has been instrumental in raising awareness about the importance of handwashing and its potential to combat illnesses and reduce absenteeism, particularly among school children. This day is of immense significance, especially in South Africa, where handwashing rates have seen a concerning decline, according to a 2021 Ipsos study, from 78% in March 2020 to 59% in September 2021. This decline in handwashing rates can potentially lead to a surge in preventable infections and diseases among children.
Lifebuoy, a global advocate for proper hand hygiene, has been at the forefront of promoting handwashing education. They have reached an impressive milestone of educating over 6 million grade one learners in South Africa alone, and more than 20 million people through the National Hygiene Schools Programme in partnership with the Department of Basic Education (DBE).
The highlight of the day was the launch of Lifebuoy’s H is Handwashing games, developed in collaboration with Imagimake, an eminent Indian toy manufacturer specializing in play, hygiene, and education. Transforming classic games like Snakes and Ladders and Tic-Tac-Toe into germ-conquering alternatives such as Germs and Ladders and Soap-Tac-Toe, these games were designed to leave a lasting impact on handwashing habits beyond playtime. A study conducted in Mumbai, India, with 190 children aged 5-8, revealed a remarkable improvement in handwashing knowledge, awareness of germ hotspots, and actual handwashing practices after exposure to these educational games.
Tarryn Payne, Unilever’s Africa Skin Cleansing Lead, reiterated Lifebuoy’s mission to instill lifelong hygiene habits, stating that the H for Handwashing Games make handwashing engaging and enjoyable, effectively combating hygiene fatigue.
The Shoprite Group, a key partner in the event, demonstrated their commitment to education and well-being by donating 450 pairs of shoes and stationary packs to Grade 1-3 learners. Representatives from the DBE, Department of Health (DOH), UNICEF, and other esteemed guests joined Unilever, Lifebuoy, and the sports stars in playing the H for Handwashing Games with the eager learners.
Dr. Granville Whittle, DDG: Care & Support in Schools, emphasized the importance of a healthy learning environment and how healthy children learn better. The collaboration between the Department and Lifebuoy aims to ensure the overall health and well-being of South Africa’s children.
The H for Handwashing Games are a result of extensive scientific research by Lifebuoy on how children learn. Building on the success of previous initiatives like the Handwashing CEOs, where select pupils were trained to lead their peers in practicing hand hygiene, these games further strengthen this crucial habit in children.
Soccer stars Andile Dlamini and Siphiwe Tshabalala expressed their privilege in being part of this impactful event and pledged to spread the message of handwashing to their respective teams. Lifebuoy’s generous donation of permanent handwashing stations and a play area for the school will serve as a lasting reminder of the power of play to educate and engage.
Principal Rebecca Sikhu expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders for their valuable contributions.
Families interested in trying the H for Handwashing Games themselves can download the games from the Lifebuoy website, ensuring that the message of proper hand hygiene resonates beyond the event and into households across South Africa.