An overlooked village
A village located in the dense forests and extensive farmlands of Kurkheda block, Gurunoli is a charming settlement 14 kilometers from Kurkheda town and 74 kilometers from the district headquarters. Agriculture serves as the backbone of the villagers’ livelihood, with animal husbandry supplementing their income. Within this calm yet remote setting, the Zilla Parishad Primary School has stood since 1964, providing education for children from grades 1 to 7. However, the challenges surrounding water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) at the school have worsened.
The school struggled with crucial issues that severely impacted its environment and students’ well-being. Dysfunctional toilets, unsafe drinking water, the absence of handwashing stations, and a lack of garbage management rendered the premises unhygienic and unwelcoming. Students, especially girls, found it challenging to attend school consistently. The absence of proper sanitation facilities discouraged girls from attending school during menstruation, and parents began considering private schools as the only alternative.
We could not concentrate on studies when the basic needs were unmet,” a few students shared.
Leading the change
Recognizing the severity of the issues, CYDA collaborated with the Gram Panchayat and the School Management Committee to drive a much-needed transformation. Their collective effort included engaging local stakeholders, parents, and government officials to create a safe and hygienic environment for the students.
Through active community participation, resources were mobilized to address critical issues and improve the school infrastructure.
- Construction of separate toilets: Toilets were built separately for boys and girls, ensuring privacy and safety.
- Installation of Handwashing Station: A dedicated handwashing area with six taps was set up to promote good hygiene practices among students.
- Provision of safe drinking water: An RO water filter system was installed, giving students access to clean and safe drinking water.
- Garbage Management: Proper garbage disposal methods were introduced, including the provision of designated garbage bags to keep the school clean.
- Empower girls with Menstrual Hygiene education: ASHA workers conducted sessions on menstrual hygiene, equipping girls with the knowledge and confidence to manage their health and breaking longstanding taboos that hindered their education.
Impact
The results of this collaborative effort made a big difference. Student attendance reached 100%, with parents opting for the renovated school instead of private alternatives. The positive changes did not go unnoticed. Block Education Officers and Center Heads visited the school regularly to acknowledge the improvements. This transformation sets a benchmark for other schools.
Youth engagement played a pivotal role in this transformation. By involving young community members, CYDA ensured that the intervention was not just about infrastructure but also about fostering a culture of responsibility and participation. “We learned the importance of hygiene and how small changes can lead to big impacts,” said a local youth volunteer. Their involvement further strengthened the sustainability of the project.
The girls now attend school even during their menstruation and the premises are always clean – shared a few parents
Overcoming Challenges
While the vision for change was clear, implementing these solutions was not without hurdles. Limited funds, logistical issues, and deep-rooted social attitudes towards hygiene practices posed significant challenges. The determination of the Gram Panchayat, supported by CYDA, helped overcome these obstacles through consistent advocacy and community engagement.
A bright future
As Gurunoli’s children continue their education in a clean and safe environment, the village stands as a shining example of how WASH initiatives can transform lives and secure a brighter future. By focusing on clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, they have created a better place for children to learn and grow. The transformation of the Zilla Parishad Primary School in Gurunoli stands as a tribute to the power of community-driven initiatives. By prioritizing water, sanitation, and hygiene, the school has not only improved educational outcomes but also fostered a healthier and more inclusive environment.
