The initiative is part of UR's curriculum for dental students and serves as a practical application of their training while giving back to the community.
Dr. Ramnath Elangovan, Acting Head of the Periodontology and Community Dentistry Department at UR, explained the scope of the campaign.
'This is part of our curriculum where students go into the community to serve and learn. Last time, we focused on schools in Kigali, such as GS Catholic Remera, GS Kimironko 1, and GS Kimironko 2. This time, we are moving outside Kigali to GS Catholic Nyamata, GS Catholic Nyamata EPR, and GS Kayenzi,' he said
The initiative has gained momentum through partnerships with the Kigali Cosmopolitan Rotary Club and Chemicotech Industries. These partners have provided resources like toothpaste and tooth brushes to support the campaign.
Elangovan noted that this year, his team targets reaching around 3,000 to 4,000 pupils in the schools. The future plan is to expand to border areas, ensuring that every child can benefit from oral health education.
He emphasized the significance of targeting children for such programs. 'We believe that what we cannot bend at the age of five, we cannot bend at fifty. Educating children ensures they carry these lessons home to their families, spreading awareness within their communities.'
According to him, the collaboration between UR and the Rotary Club has been crucial to the success of the initiative. 'The sponsorship and support we receive motivate our students to approach their work with confidence and dedication. It inspires us to expand the outreach further,' he noted.
Srinath Vardhineni, President of the Kigali Cosmopolitan Rotary Club, highlighted the role of Rotary in this initiative.
'Working with UR to teach young children about brushing techniques, the effects of sugar on teeth, and overall oral hygiene where over 25 doctors conduct screenings and providing reports on the children's oral health is a good step in the right direction. We plan to expand the program next year to reach even more children,' he said.
The outreach not only benefits the community but also provides UR students with a deeper understanding of their role as health professionals.
Alexis Nshuti, a final-year Dental Surgery student, shared his perspective. 'As much as this is a certified module in our course, it also teaches us the spirit of giving back to the community. We screen children, provide advice, and make referrals where necessary. It's satisfying to see that we are contributing to better oral health awareness, especially as upcoming health professional.'
The program has already shown significant promise, with plans for annual expansion and increased funding. 'This partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration in addressing health challenges. By working together, we can ensure oral health awareness reaches even the most underserved areas,' said Vardhineni.
As the outreach continues, its impact is clear. By educating young children, UR and the Rotary Club are laying the foundation for a healthier generation while instilling in students the value of community service.
IGIHE
