Source: Supplied

In an effort to improve hygiene practices among schoolchildren and reduce the spread of preventable diseases, Ocean Soaps (a division of Punjas Group) has launched a new hand washing initiative across the Western Division.

The campaign was launched today at Korovuto College in Nadi, as part of the school’s 50th anniversary celebrations. Initiated in partnership with the Health Ministry, the campaign will see the distribution of hundreds of antibacterial soap bars to schools across the region, with the goal of promoting daily handwashing habits in classrooms and reinforcing basic hygiene as a frontline defence against illnesses such as typhoid, leptospirosis and dengue fever.

Ocean Soaps’ donation includes its Bodyguard Antibacterial Cleansing Bars, which are designed to eliminate germs and support better hygiene among children in high-risk environments.

Chief Marketing Manager of the Punjas Group, Gopal Jadhav, said the campaign reflects the company’s commitment to community wellbeing.

“We all have a role to play in preventing illness – and that starts with small habits like washing our hands with soap. Every time a child washes their hands properly, they are protecting themselves and the people around them. It’s a simple but powerful habit.”

The initiative is being rolled out with the support of the Ministry of Health, which continues to focus on public awareness and school-based programmes to fight communicable diseases, particularly during the wet and cyclone seasons.

Ministry of Health representative Rakesh Kumar

Ministry of Health representative Rakesh Kumar acknowledged the support from Ocean Soaps and emphasised the importance of public-private collaboration in improving community health.

The campaign launch also coincides with Punjas Group’s 90th anniversary, marking nearly a century of service in the Pacific and Korovuto College’s 50th anniversary – making the event a dual celebration of milestones dedicated to community progress.

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