UNICEF recently conducted a workshop in Raipur to highlight the importance of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) in schools. WASH is essential for the all-round well-being of all children, especially girls.
Mrs Reena Kangale, Mission Director, Sarva Sikhsha Abhiyan, Chhattisgarh during inaugural address
Photo Courtesy: UNICEF Chhattisgarh
Statistics that will shock you!
9% of schools in rural Chhattisgarh do not have drinking water and 40% schools do not have toilets. Even the schools that have both drinking water and toilets are not fully functional, with only 71% and 22% respectively working.
Participants of the workshop recommended that:
- The maintenance of WASH facilities in schools be checked regularly to ensure that they work properly.
- WASH facilities should be easy to access and easy to use.
- Students and teachers be reminded of the importance of WASH through essay, painting and slogan writing competitions.
- Funds be provided and that the community be more involved in the effort.
For more details of the workshop, please see the attached report.
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