Nothing is more fruitful than sharing knowledge and experience; this is the view that the Lebanese Organization of Studies and Training (LOST) constantly strives for. For that reason, the WASH team at LOST carried out a two-day training workshop regarding hygiene promotion for Intersos and Sawa at UNHCR Zahle. The hygiene promotion topics to be delivered at the informal settlements (IS) were discussed in details, along with the skills needed to communicate and transmit the message clearly and effectively.
Mohammad Amhaz, WASH project manager discussed the importance of WASH awareness for the community, such as WASH infrastructures, water system networks, sanitation systems, open defecation, and the proper use and maintenance of latrines. Mr. Amhaz also explained the different tools and techniques used for designing, implementing, and evaluating a health behavior education session on water sanitation and hygiene, using proper communication skills, and suitable community mobilization techniques.
Furthermore, Farah Abdul Sater, WASH assistant manager, spoke about several topics such as: basic knowledge of public health, water, sanitation and hygiene key practices, hand washing and personal hygiene, menstrual hygiene, diarrhea and ORS, and water (treatment, conservation, and storage). In addition, Mr. Hussein Chrief, (Hygiene promotion officer) suggested various activities to be carried out in informal settlements (ISs) that are related to the best practices of WASH.
This training came out with a very positive outcome, as the trainees gained a plethora of new information concerning hygiene promotion, communication skills, and public health practices in general. Many individuals, especially children, are becoming ill or even dying due to unsafe hygienic behavior. Typical behaviors, such as those discussed by LOST’s WASH team can cause a positive lasting impact in people’s lives. Therefore, it is highly important to carry out trainings like this, as they will greatly benefit community members, and will ensure a safe environment for them to live in.