UNICEF Charges Students to support fight against cholera
By Ladi Dapson,Maiduguri
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on Tuesday charged the students of University of Maiduguri to join cholera awareness that would kicks out the menace ahead of the rainy season in the country.
Joseph Senesie, the UNICEF Chief of Maiduguri field office, stated this while launching the usage of U-Report to raise awareness of health emergency cases at the University campus.
He described cholera as a deadly disease that can be avoided if proper care is taken and charged the students to campaign vigorously to stamp out the disease.
Joseph underscored the importance of collaboration with the teeming youths, urging the students to assist the organization and the government in raising alarm where necessary through the U- Report platform that can be assessed using their mobile devices.
“We are appealing to you to support and help us tackle the cholera menace in the society, because every local government area and community is represented in the institution. We need your support to create awareness with your network.
“Aside from maintaining personal hygiene which is crucial, we all have a role, which is assisting the government and the society. How can we do this? By simply raising alarm through U-Report, which allows you to reach out and communicate health trends around you and it will get to us” he said.
He called on the students to maintain personal hygiene while taking their academic activities seriously.
On her part, the Program Coordinator of the Borno State Environmental Protection Agency, Hamza Aisha also admonished the students to prioritize their health and assist authorities in managing cases of cholera in the state
“I am sure that all the 36 states in Nigeria are represented in this hall. Therefore, we are believing that what you have learnt today will not just be useful to you while you are here. In your respective states, make use of it and teach others too” she said.
“Ensure you key into personal hygiene initiatives. Avoid littering and dumping of refuse any where. Stay safe and stay healthy” she said.
One of the students, Ibrahim Ali described the campaign as an eye opener and a platform that has enriched the student community with knowledge on cholera
He said “I have learnt a lot today, and this knowledge will stay with me forever. While the program was going on. I have downloaded the U-Report app and I will be committed to using it where necessary. This is an eye opener for me”.
