UNICEF says Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for children is indispensible. Access to clean water, basic toilets, and good hygiene practices not only keeps children thriving but also gives them a healthier start in life.
We are on a mission to make School WaSH a priority, especially for adolescent girls. Here's why.
28% of Maharashtra rural Government schools do not have safe and clean access to toilet facilities for girls.
An alarming 66% of schools do not have separate toilets for girls, exacerbating gender disparities in education.
The absence of suitable facilities during menstruation forces many girls to miss school days, including important tests and exams, ultimately leading to higher dropout rates and widening the gender inequality gap.
Girls resorting to open defecation face a higher risk of assault and harassment from strangers, compromising their dignity and sense of security.
Inadequate sanitation facilities put girls at a greater risk of urinary tract infections and kidney stones, negatively impacting their overall health and well-being.
We took a deep dive and conducted a Need Assessment Survey across the villages of Karjat to zero in on our plan.
A needs assessment survey led us to the realization that an alarming number of upper primary schools lacked even the very basic sanitation facilities.
A needs assessment survey led us to the realization that an alarming number of upper primary schools lacked even the very basic sanitation facilities.
With a proven track record, empowHER India has successfully constructed over 2,500 rural toilets in 6 years (including 6 school toilets), and established strong ties with government bodies at the village and block level. Our dedicated team is well-equipped to execute the program effectively.
Through our School WaSH Program, 2,300 students will gain access to improved school sanitation. This initiative will not only prevent girls from dropping out of school but also provide them with safe spaces, promoting their health, safety, and consistent presence at school.
There are 4 stages of Construction and Behaviour Change Communication:
Establishing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the government, implementing monitoring mechanisms and ensuring accountability.
Launch a powerful advocacy campaign to foster behavioral change and educate all beneficiaries about the significance of using toilets.
Utilizing high-quality materials for construction to ensure long-term sustainability, while partnering with reliable contractors to guarantee the quality of the construction process.
Implementing a year-long behavioral change communication program involving students, teachers, and parents, facilitating the formation and functioning of a Parent-Teacher Committee, and installation of Information, Education, and Communication materials for support and engagement.
