The United Nations Children’s Fund on Tuesday sensitised students of the University of Maiduguri on cholera awareness and the use of U-Report to raise awareness of health emergency cases

Addressing the students at the Muhammad Indimi Conference Hall of the University, the UNICEF Chief of Maiduguri field office, Joseph Senesie, described cholera as a deadly disease that can be avoided if the proper care is taken

He urged the students to assist the organisation and the government in raising alarm where necessary through the U- U-U-Report platform that can be accessed through their mobile devices

“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 explained.

Senesie called on the students to maintain personal hygiene while taking their academics seriously

On her part, the program coordinator of the Borno State Environmental Protection Agency, Hamza Aisha, also admonished the students to prioritise 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 believe 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

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.

“Ensure you key into personal hygiene initiatives. Avoid littering and dumping of refuse anywhere. Stay safe and stay healthy,” she further admonished the residents and other participants.