Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) are fundamental to public health and education, particularly in rural communities. However, limited resources and lack of infrastructure often create significant challenges. CYDA’s WASH Mitra project, supported by UNICEF, stands as an example of how youth can be mobilized to address these issues while enhancing their livelihoods. This case study talks about the transformation of Abhishek Madvi, a 21-year-old from Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, who rose from financial hardship to become a successful entrepreneur and community leader.
Challenges
Abhishek grew up in Ankhoda, a remote village in Gadchiroli district, where access to basic amenities was scarce. Schools in the area lacked proper WASH facilities, leading to unhygienic conditions that discouraged children from attending the schools. The absence of clean drinking water, functional toilets and proper sanitation systems caused frequent health issues and high dropout rates among students, particularly girls.
Limited financial resources and a lack of guidance restricted his opportunities to improve his livelihood. His family, dependent on irregular income, could not support his aspirations for higher education or skill development. These challenges mirrored the struggles of countless youths in similar rural settings.
WASH Mitra Initiative
CYDA, through its WASH Mitra project, sought to address these challenges by equipping youth like Abhishek with the skills to improve WASH infrastructure. The program aimed to enhance hygiene and sanitation in schools and empower young people to become agents of change.
In mid-2022, Abhishek learnt about WASH Mitra during a youth program organized in his village. Encouraged by the prospect of acquiring practical skills and contributing to his community, he joined the initiative. Over several months, Abhishek underwent rigorous training in plumbing, electrical work and other relevant trades and also received a comprehensive toolkit to kickstart his efforts. The training emphasized problem-solving and hands-on experience, preparing participants to assess and address real-world challenges. For Abhishek, this program was a lifeline, offering him a pathway out of poverty and a chance to make a meaningful impact.
Implementation: From Training to Action
After completing his training in December 2022, Abhishek began assessing WASH facilities in schools across his village. Armed with the skills he had learned, he identified issues such as broken water taps, non-functional toilets, and inadequate drainage systems.
Abhishek faced financial hardships, delayed payments, and the challenges of his village’s poor infrastructure, yet he persisted. He collaborated with school authorities and local leaders to prioritize upgrades, even promoting for additional resources when necessary. His efforts culminated in the repair and installation of critical infrastructure, significantly improving the hygiene conditions in schools.
Recognizing the growing demand for his services, Abhishek took a bold step forward. Leveraging his training and toolkit, he started his own business specializing in WASH-related services. This entrepreneurial venture not only provided him with a stable income but also created employment opportunities for four other youths in his community.
Impact: A transformed community and a rising leader
- Upgraded WASH facilities in schools reduced absenteeism and dropout rates.
- Improved hygiene infrastructure benefited students, fostering a healthier learning environment.
- Abhishek’s business generated employment, contributing to the local economy.
- Students, particularly girls, felt more comfortable attending school, resulting in better educational outcomes.
- Community members became more aware of hygiene practices, leading to improved public health.
- Abhishek emerged as a role model, inspiring other youths to pursue skill development and entrepreneurship.
Driving positive change
CYDA played a pivotal role in Abhishek’s journey by identifying local needs, customizing its WASH Mitra program and bridged the gap between youth potential and community challenges. The organization provided not just training but also continuous support, equipping participants with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed. Through workshops, mentoring, and community engagement, the team ensured that the skills imparted were effectively utilized. The toolkit and entrepreneurial guidance have been instrumental in helping him establish his business, proving that a small investment in youth can yield significant social returns.
Abhishek Madvi’s journey from hardship to success illustrates the transformative potential of programs like WASH Mitra. By equipping youth with relevant skills and empowering them to tackle pressing challenges, organizations like CYDA are building a generation of leaders capable of driving positive change. With continued investment in skill development and youth empowerment, similar success stories can emerge, lighting the way for a brighter future.
