On the occasion of Global Handwashing Day, children impressed more than a hundred adults by demonstrating six proper handwashing steps within just 30 seconds on Wednesday.
The audience, amazed by the scientific technique demonstrated by children as young as five, pledged to adopt the correct handwashing method in their daily lives.
This year, the government’s theme for the day was “Be a Handwashing Hero”, while the World Health Organization promoted the message “Clean Hands Save Lives.”
The event was organised in a festive atmosphere under the SEEDS programme of Development Association across village levels in Islampur, Dewanganj, and Sadar Upazilas of Jamalpur district. A brief discussion session was held to highlight the importance of hygiene and proper handwashing practices.
A simple yet meaningful event was hosted in the courtyard of the SEEDS-supported pre-primary school in Dakkhin Bhatikamarhi village, Polbandha Union, Islampur. The ceremony was inaugurated by Jahangir Selim, Director of Human Resource Development at Development Association. Among other guests were Nazme Sabina, CEO of DevResonance from Dhaka, union council members Nur Islam and Mina Begum, Monitoring Officer Moniruzzaman from the SEED programme, Education Officer Sayedul Islam, Agriculturist Majidul Haque, and Upazila Coordinator Robiul Emran.
Eighteen pre-primary students took part in the handwashing demonstration.
Across the SEEDS programme in Islampur, Dewanganj, and Sadar Upazilas, 26 pre-primary schools and three bridge schools saw participation from over 2,000 individuals including 580 children, parents, teachers, religious leaders, local representatives, and NGO staff.
At the close of the event, all participants committed to practising proper handwashing and maintaining cleanliness and basic healthcare. Speakers also discussed the consequences of poor hygiene and urged everyone to take part in the ongoing typhoid vaccination campaign.
