By Soumyashree Mohanty
In a remarkable turn of events, students at rural schools in Maharashtra have made headlines. Thanks to a Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) awareness session conducted by the Centre for Youth Development and Activities (CYDA), these young changemakers realized the importance of cleanliness and took action. After attending the WASH awareness session, students realized that the lack of hygiene during the cooking process and toilets as well as around them could have serious health implications. Empowered by their newfound knowledge, they decided to report their concerns to the higher authorities.
The School Management Committee took swift action, and the cooking team now takes great care to maintain hygiene while preparing meals. This incident highlights the significance of WASH in schools and the impact that students can have when empowered with the right knowledge.
Poor sanitation and hygiene can lead to diseases like diarrhea, which claims 11% of lives of children under five in India. However, improved sanitation and handwashing can reduce diarrhea by up to 50% and respiratory infections by 23%. Moreover, schools with proper WASH facilities see a 15% rise in attendance, especially among girls. This demonstrates the critical role that WASH plays in promoting health, education, and overall well-being.
CYDA’s Child Cabinet initiative has been instrumental in promoting WASH awareness and practices in schools. This student-led group empowers young people to take ownership of their school’s WASH facilities and promotes healthy habits among their peers and families. The Child Cabinet operates similarly to a government body, with students elected through a democratic process and assigned specific roles and responsibilities.
Gaurav Dhoable, a 9th-grade student, is a testament to the impact of CYDA’s initiative. Once known for his disruptive behavior, Gaurav transformed into a leader after participating in CYDA’s WASH sessions. He is now the head of his school’s Child Cabinet and promotes hygiene practices among his peers. Gaurav’s transformation is a powerful example of how guidance and opportunities can foster personal growth and positive change.
The impact of CYDA’s initiative extends beyond the school walls. Students like Gaurav and others who are part of the Child Cabinet are spreading awareness about WASH practices in their families and communities, creating a ripple effect that can lead to lasting change. A father of a Child Cabinet member shared how his daughter taught him the six steps of handwashing and the importance of hygiene, demonstrating the profound impact that these young changemakers can have on their families and communities.
The story of these young changemakers serves as a reminder that even the smallest actions can have a significant impact. By empowering students to take ownership of their school’s WASH facilities, we can create a generation of leaders who will drive positive change in their communities. CYDA’s Child Cabinet initiative is a shining example of how organizations can work together to promote WASH awareness and practices, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more empowered society.
Conclusion
The story of the students at the Zilla Parishad school in Maharashtra is a testament to the power of empowerment and the impact that young people can have when given the right tools and knowledge. As we move forward, it is essential to continue supporting initiatives like CYDA’s Child Cabinet, which are driving positive change in schools and communities across India. By working together, we can create a brighter future for our children and promote a culture of cleanliness, hygiene, and leadership. ( The author is the Research Associate at CYDA)
