The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has sensitized students of the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) on cholera awareness and the importance of using the U-Report platform to report health emergencies.
Speaking at the Muhammad Indimi Conference Hall, UNICEF’s Chief of the Maiduguri Field Office, Joseph Senesie, emphasized that cholera is a deadly yet preventable disease if proper hygiene measures are observed. He urged students to play an active role in public health by using the U-Report platform, which allows individuals to report and communicate health trends through their mobile devices.
“Beyond maintaining personal hygiene, which is crucial, we all have a responsibility to support the government and society. You can do this by raising alarms through U-Report, ensuring timely response to health emergencies,” Senesie explained. He also encouraged students to take their academics seriously while maintaining good hygiene.
Hamza Aisha, Program Coordinator at the Borno State Environmental Protection Agency, reinforced the need for students to prioritize their health and support authorities in managing cholera cases. She expressed confidence that the knowledge gained would be shared beyond the university community.
“I am sure students from all 36 states are represented here. What you have learned today is not just for you; take it home and educate others,” she said.
One of the students, Ibrahim Ali, described the campaign as an eye-opener, adding that he had already downloaded the U-Report app and was committed to using it for reporting health concerns.
“This session has given me invaluable knowledge that will stay with me forever. I am now more aware of the importance of hygiene and community responsibility,” he said.
The awareness campaign concluded with a strong call for students and residents to maintain personal hygiene, avoid improper waste disposal, and stay proactive in disease prevention efforts.
