Abstract
Introduction: Access to safe water and sanitation is a fundamental human right. In India, despite programmatic interventions poor access to safe drinking water and hygiene habits affect 38 million annually with water borne diseases & 1.5 million children die of diarrhea[1]. A Sanitation Project (WOTR 2008) explored the role of school children as effective change agents. Going further from the initial project, WOTR[2], India implemented a School Sanitation Project in 24 villages in Maharashtra state, covering 66 schools in 2011. Methodology: The project aimed at creating a hygiene culture among children by promoting healthy behavior with structural interventions. The study included school children from 3 to 13 yrs. Structural interventions included construction of water supply system, drainage, solid waste management & toilets. Behavioral interventions included teaching children water management & sanitary practices. Cluster workshops for school teachers and community members were held to ensure continuity. Village Education Committee[3] was the main stakeholder of project. Results: All schools were provided secured water supply, school children have started using the sanitation facilities hence, open air defecation is almost nil. Water supply systems are operated & maintained by children and school authorities that ensure sustainability. Hygienic sanitary practices are found to spill over to homes. Girls are comfortable attending schools as separate toilets are available. Healthy habits ensure increased school attendance and performance. Conclusion: Children are effective change agents ensuring sustainability. School sanitation projects should optimally utilize student resource to ensure a healthy and productive generation. Addressing water and sanitation play a big role in adapting to climate change. [1] Drinking water quality in rural India: Issues and approaches: Background paper, Water Aid [2] WOTR- Watershed Organization Trust [3] Village Education Committee- a local legal institution subcommittee of Gram Panchyat
Published Version
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