By Sushil Zadode, Project Coordinator, Nagpur
Supported by Persistent Foundation
Handwashing with soap is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect individuals, particularly the younger ones, from diseases such as diarrhea, cough, cold and skin infections. It removes dirt, bacteria, and viruses that water alone cannot. Regular handwashing helps children stay healthy, attend school regularly and develop lifelong hygiene habits. Without using soap, germs remain on the hands, increasing the risk of illness and spreading infections to others. Therefore, promoting handwashing with soap is essential for children’s overall health, learning and well-being both at home and in school.
Recognizing this pressing challenge, Centre for Youth Development and Activities stepped in to create awareness and inculcate healthy and hygiene habits through soap making activity among students of Bhide High School, Nagpur.
Enjoying learning by doing
CYDA organized a two-hour soap-making workshop with support from the Persistent Foundation. The session involved students from 7 – 9 grades, blending science, creativity and social responsibility into a single hands-on experience.
Under the guidance of CYDA’s facilitator, students learnt how to make colorful and fragrant soaps using simple materials such as a glycerin soap base, essential oils, natural colors, Multani Mitti, Vitamin E capsules, and soap molds. The process was safe and eco-friendly, free from harsh chemicals. Employees from the Persistent Foundation also joined in, motivating the students and assisting them through each step. The students were thrilled to experiment by choosing their favourite scents and colors to create a variety of soaps. By the end of the activity, the group had made 210 creative and colorful soaps, each costing Rs. 12/-.
This initiative gave an opportunity for the students to learn and understand the significance of using soap and encouraged them to use it regularly. The project’s success was later showcased in the Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL) under the Innovation Category, where it received appreciation for promoting low-cost, practical solutions for daily life.
Key Learnings
- Inspired students to spread awareness within families and communities.
- Encouraged students to use handmade soap in schools regularly.
- Develops students’ creativity and teamwork skills.
- Helped students understand the significance of frequent hand washing with soap.
Voices from Ground…….
“We never thought making soap could be so easy. Now I want to make one for my family and will share the learnings with everyone!” – Says Anjali, grade 8
“Earlier, we did not always have soap at school. Now we make our own and use it every day.” – Sameer, grade 7. These reflections from students showed how a simple idea can lead to behavioral change and confidence.
The Creative Soap-Making Activity at Bhide High School became a model of learning with purpose – blending science, art, and social impact. It addressed a crucial problem, equipped students with practical life skills, and inspired them to become changemakers in their communities.
Reaching the Underserved
Encouraged by the positive response, CYDA would replicate the activity in two tribalschools, where the need for such hygiene initiatives is necessary. In these regions, many children lack access to basic hygiene materials. Teaching them to make their own soap will empower them with knowledge and a sustainable way to protect their health.
