COMMUNITY CLEANING ENGAGEMENT AT BUSHENYI GENERAL MARKET
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PksJ05ojCNw for more highlights of the activity
REPORT ON THE COMMUNITY CLEANING EXERCISE HELD ON 26TH MARCH 2026
- OVERVIEW
In fulfilment of the university’s mission of “Education for Self-Reliance” and in alignment with the National Sanitation Week and the District’s “Clean Model” status, the Rotaract Club and the Red Cross Link of Valley University of Science and Technology (VUST) conducted a joint community engagement activity on Thursday, 26th March 2026. The exercise focused on cleaning the Bushenyi General Market, a central hub for trade and food supply in the town.
- OBJECTIVES
- To promote hygiene and sanitation within the local community.
- To strengthen the relationship between Valley University and the residents of Bushenyi.
- To instill a spirit of volunteerism and civic responsibility among students.
- To reduce the risk of sanitation-related diseases in a high-traffic public area.
- PARTICIPANTS AND LEADERSHIP
The activity was a collaborative effort involving dozens of student volunteers. The teams were organized and supervised by two dedicated staff members:
- Rotaract Club of VUST led by Mr. Sseruma Steven (Systems Administrator/Teaching Assistant) and the Rotaract president.
- Red Cross Link of VUST led by Dr. Eitu Isaiah (Senior Academic Staff/Researcher).
The presence of senior staff provided both technical guidance and morale to the students, ensuring the exercise was conducted efficiently and professionally.
- DETAILS OF THE ACTIVITY
The cleaning exercise commenced at 9:00 AM and concluded at 11:00 AM. The students were divided into groups to handle different sections of the market.
Waste Collection. Clearing plastic waste and organic debris from the drainage systems and walkways.
Sweeping. Thorough sweeping of the market stalls and the main entrance areas.
Sensitisation. While cleaning, students engaged with market vendors, sharing brief tips on the importance of maintaining a clean workspace for the health of both sellers and buyers.
The university together with the municipal health officer provided essential tools, including brooms, rakes, waste bags, and protective gear (gloves and masks) to ensure the safety of all participants.
- IMPACT AND FEEDBACK
- Environmental Impact. The market was left visibly cleaner, with cleared drainage paths that will prevent water stagnation during the rainy season.
- Community Response. Vendors and local leaders at the Bushenyi General Market expressed deep gratitude to VUST. They noted that such initiatives reduce the burden on local authorities and demonstrate that the university is a “good neighbor.”
- Student Growth. Participants gained hands-on experience in community service, fostering a sense of pride in their environment.
- CHALLENGES
While the activity was successful, the team noted a shortage of permanent waste bins within the market area, which often leads to rapid litter accumulation.
- RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSION
The activity was a resounding success and highlighted VUST’s commitment to social responsibility. We recommend that;
- Consistency. Similar engagements be scheduled at least once every quarter.
- Partnerships. The university continues to work closely with the Town Council to address long-term waste management solutions.
Management is thanked for the continued support offered to the Rotaract Club and the Red Cross Link. Together, we continue to build a cleaner, healthier, and more self-reliant community.
Mr. Sseruma Steven
Coordinator, VUST Rotaract Club
Dr. Eitu Isaiah
Patron/Lead, VUST Red Cross Link
Copy to:
- Vice-Chancellor, VUST
- University Secretary
- Dean of Students
- Mayor, Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality