Move Up Global Inc

Through MUG's partnership with the WSF, we have successfully distributed a total of 910 pairs of shoes across various locations: 606 pairs at Nyabirehe elementary school 256 pairs at Rwinzovu elementary and secondary school 19 pairs at the Rwinzovu health center 29 pairs to the community (specify location) These shoes are an integral part of our bundle of interventions, aimed at improving hygiene and preventing infection by soil-transmitted helminths and other infections. Our country liaison is actively working with in-country partners to prepare for the next distribution phase, ensuring that more children and community members benefit from this essential support. This ongoing effort underscores our commitment to improving health and well-being through practical, sustainable solutions. NTD Screening and Health Education Elementary school students were screened for NTDs.

To ensure a close follow-up of students with signs of NTDs, our community health workers and health experts conducted weekly home visits. In addition to systematic screening, health education has been a cornerstone of our interventions. We have conducted numerous workshops and seminars in schools to educate students about hygiene practices, disease prevention, and the importance of maintaining good health. These sessions have been well-received and have significantly increased health awareness among students. Soap making and provision Ensuring that schools have a steady supply of soap has been a fundamental part of our hygiene promotion efforts. MUG has taught Nyabirehe teachers how to make soap with easy to obtain local materials. The project has met with great success. With this project, we have been able to encourage consistent handwashing practices among students and staff. This initiative has significantly reduced the incidence of hygiene-related illnesses and has fostered a culture of cleanliness within the school environment. The availability of soap has also been complemented by educational sessions on proper handwashing techniques, making sure that students understand the importance of this simple yet effective practice in preventing disease. We have expanded soap-making project two additional soap-making locations: Rwinzovu School and a Community Center. This expansion will allow us to train teachers and community members in Rwinzovu, enhancing local skills and economic opportunities. While schools will continue to distribute soap for free to promote hygiene, the Community Center will start selling soap to generate revenue, creating a sustainable business model. Currently, the Nyabirehe location averages the production of about 100 bars per month, totaling 900 pieces. Nutrition Programs Our nutrition programs have been designed to address both immediate and long-term health needs of students. We have implemented comprehensive nutrition education sessions that teach students about balanced diets, the importance of various nutrients, and healthy eating habits. Additionally, meal programs have been established to ensure that students receive nutritious meals during school hours. These programs have been instrumental in combating malnutrition and promoting overall health, thereby enabling students to focus better on their studies and participate actively in school activities. Our nutrition programs include gardening and poultry farming. Gardens: Our gardening projects are thriving on the grounds of both Nyabirehe and Rwinzovu schools, contributing significantly to their school feeding programs. We have also built 44 kitchen gardens at the homes of students, which provide fresh produce to enhance the nutritional intake of those students. Additionally, IREME has started growing seedling plants for these gardens and distributing them to vulnerable families. This initiative has extended to three Early Childhood Development centers and 22 community families, who have requested seedlings from IREME, demonstrating the project's positive impact on the broader community. Distribution of Chickens and Egg Production Providing chickens to schools has been an innovative approach to improving nutrition and food security. After constructing a chicken coup, Nyabirehe school received a flock of some 850 chickens, which has not only provided a sustainable source of protein at school lunches through egg production but also served as a practical learning tool for students. They have learned about animal husbandry, the nutritional benefits of eggs, and the importance of sustainable agricultural practices. Some of the students have received chickens to raise at their homes. This initiative has enhanced the dietary intake of students, contributing to better health and academic performance. 1.2.5. Advocacy and Coordination Our advocacy efforts have focused on raising awareness about neglected tropical diseases and the importance of school-health system linkages. We have coordinated with local government bodies, health institutions, and educational authorities to ensure a unified approach to tackling these health issues. We have organized meetings with the mayor of Musanze, to discuss collaboration opportunities to address pressing needs in hygiene, sanitation, and poverty alleviation. The mayor suggested further discussions with the WSF and Samaritan's Feet to enhance our efforts and explore additional support. Sports Field Development Creating sports fields has been an important aspect of promoting physical activity and overall well-being among students. Physical education and sports are essential for the holistic development of children, contributing to their physical health, mental well-being, and social skills. The development of sports fields has provided students with safe and accessible spaces to engage in various physical activities, from organized sports to recreational play. These fields have become hubs of activity and community engagement, encouraging students to lead active lifestyles and fostering a sense of teamwork and sportsmanship.

Other initiatives Menstrual Hygiene MUG Research Fellowship Program We have established a fellowship program to train and empower local health workers and educators, drawing upon college and graduate students. This program has equipped fellows with the skills and knowledge needed to work with teachers and community members and effectively implement the Knot (Ipfundo) Framework, ensuring sustainability and local ownership of the interventions.