Recap: 4th Edition of Rural Practicals – Spring Protection in Nakwasi Village, Butaleja Sub-County

On Tuesday, 19th August 2025, our students of the School of Hygiene-Mbale carried out a #SpringProtection and water source improvement activity in Nakwasi Village, Butaleja Sub-County. This exercise was part of the 4th Edition of Rural Practicals, a hands-on program designed to give students practical experience while directly serving the community.

Spring Protection and Community Impact

This spring protection activity came three weeks into the Rural Practicals program in Butaleja Sub-County, giving students a valuable opportunity to put classroom learning into real-life action.

Students actively participated in digging and creating channels to direct water flow, as well as working on the protection of an open well. These efforts aimed at ensuring improved hygiene, sustainable access, and safe water for the residents of Nakwasi Village.

We were also honored to have our Deputy Principal, Mr. Ogwang Richard, present at the site to guide, supervise, and encourage the students during the activity. His presence reinforced the importance of professional guidance and inspired the learners to approach the work with dedication.

Locating and Protecting the Spring Eye

The students began by identifying the eye of the spring—the exact point where the water emerges. They drained the surrounding water to clearly expose the source. After locating it, they carefully applied clay around the spring eye, forming a protective barrier that prevents contamination and ensures a continuous flow of safe water.

Installing Infrastructure for Water Collection

To make water collection more hygienic and efficient, the students prepared for the installation of a pipe system. This step is vital in reducing contamination, as it prevents people from dipping containers directly into the spring.

Clearing and Preparing for Fencing

In addition to protecting the spring, students cleared the grass and surrounding vegetation around the water source. This work was preparation for fencing, which is critical in protecting the spring from animals, human interference, and surface runoff. Fencing helps secure the improvements made, ensuring the spring remains sustainable for years to come.

Learning Through Service – The 4th Edition of Rural Practicals

This project reflected the central aim of the 4th Edition of Rural Practicals: to combine academic training with community service. By engaging directly with rural communities, students gained hands-on experience in public health, water safety, and environmental sustainability.

The activity allowed the learners to see the immediate impact of their work—improved access to clean and safe water—while reinforcing the values of teamwork, responsibility, and service to society.

Lasting Benefits for the Community

For the people of Nakwasi Village, the improved spring is more than just a water source—it is a lifeline. With a reliable supply of clean water, families are now better protected against waterborne diseases, children can grow up healthier, and time spent searching for safe water is greatly reduced.

Looking Forward

The success of this spring protection project under the 4th Edition of Rural Practicals demonstrates how education and community service go hand in hand. As each edition builds on the last, more communities will benefit, and more students will graduate with the skills and passion needed to transform society.

✅ #SpringProtection #CleanWater #SafeWaterForAll #RuralPracticals