By Asaram Kolgude, Project Coordinator
Supported by CIE INDIA
Education is not just about reading and writing—it is the foundation for empowerment, dignity, and equality. For children from marginalized and rural communities, going to school represents hope for a better tomorrow. However, the lack of basic learning materials and hygiene facilities often becomes a barrier to their academic journey.
With a vision to strengthen the foundation of learning and promote dignity among students, Centre for Youth Development and Activities (CYDA) in collaboration with CIE India implemented the WASH in School initiative. The program aims to integrate education with awareness on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), while ensuring that no child is left behind due to a lack of resources.
Bringing Joy to Classrooms
To promote education and inclusion, CYDA and CIE India jointly distributed educational kits to 573 students across five Zilla Parishad Schools in Mhrola, Naigavan Khandevadi, Pan Ranjangaon, Gavare Wasti, and Imampur, located within Paithan and Bidkin clusters of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district.
Each child received a school bag, notebooks, a compass box, pens, pencils, erasers, writing pads and other learning essentials. For many students, this was their first new school bag, a moment of joy and pride that symbolized equality, inclusion and renewed motivation.
As the kits were distributed, classrooms filled with laughter and excitement. The sight of children holding their new school bags, checking their notebooks and sharing smiles with their friends reflected the true spirit of education.
Importance of Education for Every Child
Education has the power to transform lives, particularly for children from marginalized and tribal communities. It enables them to break the cycle of poverty, build confidence, and pursue their dreams. Yet, for many rural families, even basic educational materials are a luxury.
Access to simple education tools, such as a school bag or a notebook, can significantly boost a child’s enthusiasm to attend school regularly and participate actively in class. When children are provided with the right support, they feel valued and included. It confirms their belief that their education matters and that they, too, have the right to dream big.
As Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” For these children, every book, pencil and notebook becomes a tool of empowerment, helping them write their own story of change.
Linking Education with WASH Awareness
The WASH in School initiative goes beyond providing learning materials—it integrates hygiene, sanitation, and behavioral change into the learning environment. During the distribution event, students were reminded of the importance of clean water, handwashing and personal hygiene.
Through engaging activities and discussions, children learnt how maintaining cleanliness and sanitation contributes to better health and improved learning outcomes. The initiative also encouraged students to become ambassadors of hygiene—spreading awareness within their families and communities.
Community Collaboration and Impact
The success of the distribution initiative was made possible through the active involvement of teachers, School Management Committees (SMCs), and local communities. Their participation ensured that every child felt included and valued. Teachers expressed that the support from CYDA and CIE India helped create a more positive and engaging school atmosphere, motivating students to attend regularly and take pride in their learning. Parents, too, appreciated the effort, noting how such initiatives ease their financial burden and inspire their children to stay committed to education.
Seeing the sparkle in the eyes of children holding their new school bags was more than a moment of joy—it was a reflection of hope, equality, and opportunity. As education continues to reach the most marginalized corners, initiatives like these remind us that when communities and organizations work together, transformation becomes sustainable.
