KIGALI - Environmental Health students at Kigali Health Institute (KHI), yesterday, began a 40-day urban field visit to assess the hygiene and sanitation status of public places in Kigali City.

The students began the tour, inspecting an abattoir in Nyabugogo where various discussions regarding the working regulations and conditions were held.

A veterinary doctor at the facility, Patrick Rwasamanzi, explained that protective measures are in place to avoid contamination of meat meant for public consumption.

"We carry out all the necessary examinations to avoid the slaughter of infected animals. A post-mortem is always carried as well out to investigate further infections,” Rwasamanzi said.

As he demonstrated the precautions taken to ensure that there is proper waste management and disposal, Rwasamanzi disclosed that over 200 cows are slaughtered daily.

At the beginning of the inspection tour, Frank Gasana, a lecturer at the institute, said the exercise is meant to enable students get practical skills required by enviromental health practitioners.

"It is necessary to let students relate what they study in class with the field practices on the ground. That’s why such activities exist on the academic annual calendar,” he said.

A student undertaking the field work, Jonathan Kwizera, said that it helps them acquire a wide range of knowledge and skills.

"Sometimes a teacher gives theoretical examples in class and such field trips help us to understand lessons even more,” he said.

In subsequent days, the students will visit various public places such as hospitals, hotels and other public offices before compiling and submitting a report at the end of the 40 days.

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