Changing Lives in Cambodian Schools

SIEM REAP, Cambodia — In addition to bringing clean water to rural villages, the “Waters for Life” programme in Cambodia has placed a strong emphasis on promoting good hygiene practices among schoolchildren. In many rural schools around Siem Reap, children have little to no formal education on basic hygiene. As a result, preventable illnesses such as diarrhea, skin infections, and dental issues are common. The lack of clean water, coupled with limited awareness, makes personal hygiene an everyday challenge.

As part of the initiative led by the Singapore International Foundation (SIF) and Water for Cambodia, volunteers not only installed biosand water filters but also conducted interactive hygiene workshops in local schools. These sessions focused on practical skills such as proper hand washing, teeth brushing, and the importance of using clean water in daily routines. Through games, demonstrations, and distribution of hygiene kits, children were taught how small daily habits could make a big difference in their health.

The impact goes beyond just physical well-being. Improved hygiene helps reduce absenteeism, allowing children to attend school more regularly and concentrate better in class. Teachers have also reported increased awareness among students, who in turn bring these lessons home to their families. By equipping children with essential hygiene knowledge, the programme fosters healthier communities and lays the foundation for a more resilient future.