By Akanyijuka Julius
RUKUNGIRI : Streets of Kebison Town Council in Rukungiri District were brought to life with a renewed sense of civic responsibility as students of St. Jerome Secondary School Ndama carried out a major clean-up exercise aimed at tackling the growing sanitation challenges in the area.
Led by Deputy Headteacher Alex Musinguzi, the students took to the streets armed with spades, brooms, and determination, clearing heaps of garbage and launching a campaign dubbed “Keep Kebison Town Council Clean.”
The initiative comes at a time when concerns over poor waste management and sanitation have been rising within the town council, prompting calls for community-driven solutions.
Speaking during the exercise, Musinguzi emphasized that the school’s long-term vision is to promote a “smart town” where residents actively participate in maintaining a clean and healthy environment.
He noted that the clean-up effort is not only about sanitation but also rooted in the school’s values as a Roman Catholic-founded institution. According to him, the activity reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ, particularly the importance of charity, service, and responsibility toward others.
“This is part of our mission to instill values of service and responsibility among our students. We want them to carry this spirit beyond school and into their communities,” Musinguzi said.
He encouraged the learners to sustain the momentum even after the exercise, adding that such initiatives serve as a reminder of the importance of selflessness and community service.
Students who participated in the clean-up exercise said the activity was both educational and impactful. Learners including Kened Abisinguza, Amanda Hillary, and Prize Nyakato noted that the exercise helped them learn practical skills in maintaining cleanliness both at school and at home.
“We have learned how to clean and keep our homes and surroundings tidy. It is an important life skill that we will continue to practice,” one of the students shared.
The campaign was officially flagged off by Kebison Town Council Health Inspector Tusasirwe Allen, who commended the students and school administration for taking the lead in addressing sanitation challenges.
Tusasirwe urged residents to take personal responsibility for their environment, emphasizing that maintaining cleanliness should not be left to authorities alone.
“Every individual must take ownership of their surroundings. A clean environment starts with you,” she said, while applauding St. Jerome Secondary School Ndama for their contribution to improving the town’s sanitation.
The clean-up drive has sparked optimism among local leaders and residents, with hopes that such community-led initiatives will inspire broader participation in keeping Kebison Town Council clean, safe, and healthy for all.
