Introduction of Lakhmapur Bori Village
Eight kilometers from the busy town of Chamorshi in Gadchiroli district, Lakhmapur Bori village is a serene community enriched by the flowing Wainganga River. The village, home to 3,067 residents, thrives on agriculture and animal husbandry. With an impressive literacy rate of 87%, Lakhmapur Bori has always valued education. The Zilla Parishad Primary School, established in 1954, has served as a cornerstone for learning, with 267 students enrolled from grades 1 to 7. Behind this scenario, was a serious problem that threatened the health, education, and morale of its students.
Challenges of school
In 2019, the school faced a major problem with not having enough toilets. With only a few toilets for 125 boys and 142 girls, students often had to leave school or miss classes. The problem was particularly severe for girls, who frequently missed school during menstruation due to lack of proper facilities. Moreover, there were no handwashing stations, leading to a rise in hygiene-related illnesses. These conditions not only compromised students’ health but also disrupted their education, perpetuating cycles of absenteeism and poor academic performance.
The catalyst for change
In the face of these challenges, the intervention of the Center for Youth Development and Activities (CYDA) marked a turning point. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, CYDA facilitated a partnership between the school and a local contractor, Mr. Tarun, who was undertaking construction work for a nearby Primary Health Center (PHC). With land constraints hindering the PHC project, Mr. Tarun proposed a unique solution: in exchange for a portion of the school’s land, he would build two new toilet units for the students.
The proposal was meticulously reviewed by the School Management Committee (SMC), led by Principal Mr. Damodar Nimbekar. After careful deliberation and consultation with stakeholders, the SMC approved the plan, setting the stage for a transformation that would redefine the learning environment of the school.
Building a foundation for better health and education
The results were immediate and impactful. Two modern toilet units were constructed, providing much-needed relief to the students. Additionally, the school leveraged its resources to further enhance its facilities. A handwashing station equipped with 13 taps was installed, promoting hygiene and instilling good practices among the students. An RO water filter ensured access to clean drinking water, significantly reducing instances of waterborne illnesses.
To address the specific needs of adolescent girls, CYDA collaborated with local health workers. An ASHA worker began visiting the school regularly to educate girls about menstrual health, while dedicated garbage bins for the disposal of menstrual products were introduced. These initiatives fostered a supportive and hygienic environment, encouraging girls to attend school without hesitation.
Transformative Impact: A New Chapter for the Village
The interventions brought about a wave of positive change, making the school more child-friendly. Attendance rates soared as students no longer had to leave school to access basic facilities. Hygiene awareness improved among students, resulting in a noticeable decline in illness-related absences. Parents expressed their gratitude, recognizing pivotal role in prioritizing their children’s well-being. “The construction of the toilets will be beneficial for the students, and we are satisfied.”
Government officials, including the Block Education Officer (BEO) and Center Head, also praised the efforts. During their visits, they observed the enhanced infrastructure and commended CYDA’s commitment to the students.
Transforming Education and Dignity
The transformation of the Zilla Parishad Primary School in Lakhmapur Bori stands as a powerful example of addressing the infrastructure challenges at the school. Collaboration and resourcefulness could tackle critical gaps in infrastructure. The story of Lakhmapur Bori is not just about building toilets; it is about restoring dignity, empowering students, and breaking barriers to education. It serves as an inspiration for other communities facing similar challenges, demonstrating that meaningful change is possible when organizations step forward to support for a common cause. Through its ethical and impactful intervention has left an indelible mark on the lives of Lakhmapur Bori’s students, paving the way for a brighter, healthier, and more equitable future.
(This article is a contribution from Kalyani Mudaliar, Documentation officer at CYDA)
