The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) provided financial support to the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU), Republic of Uganda, as part of ICESCO’s ambitious programme “Technology Development Grant to Counter COVID-19 in the Islamic World”. The support aims to develop and expand the scope of the production of an innovative device to promote safe hygiene and provide water for handwashing as part of the preventive measures against the virus.

This device is based on motion sensor technology; it pours water and soap once the user runs his hand closer to the device. This device can operate on solar energy produced by special solar panels, which allows for the use of this device in remote areas with no access to electricity sources.

In the same vein, Dr. Ahmad Kaweesa Ssengendo, Rector of IUIU, stated that thanks to ICESCO’s funding, a large number of devices would be produced and distributed for free to universities, hospitals, schools and other public places.

The programme “Technology Development Grant to Counter COVID-19 in the Islamic World” is part of ICESCO’s initiatives to support Member States in mitigating the impact of COVID-19 pandemic. Besides, the Organization had already financed hand sanitizer production units and ensured their distribution to citizens in several countries.

Taking into account the success of these projects, ICESCO received requests from many universities in the Member States to set hand sanitizer production units and produce handwashing devices for citizens in public places. ICESCO reaffirms its sustained support for such projects and other endeavors likely to support Member States’ efforts to counter COVID-19.