Health, Dignity, and Sustainable Sanitation
1. The Challenge (Context)
In many rural schools and villages, the lack of functional toilets and safe drinking water forces children—especially adolescent girls—to drop out. Waterborne diseases compromise health, while poor menstrual hygiene management (MHM) affects dignity and attendance. Infrastructure exists in some places but often fails due to a lack of maintenance and community ownership.
2. Our Strategic Intervention
REAL treats WASH as a catalyst for education and health. Our “School-to-Community” approach ensures that hygiene habits learned by children in school are transferred to their families. We focus heavily on Behavioral Change Communication (BCC) and the formation of student-led committees to ensure infrastructure is not just built, but maintained.
3. Key Programs & Initiatives
A. School Sanitation & Infrastructure
Supported by KKS Germany, BMZ & NABFINS
We align with the national Swachh Bharat Mission to upgrade school sanitation.
• Intervention: Construction of gender-segregated toilet blocks with RCC roofing and running water.
• Safe Water: Installation of RO Water Purification systems with storage tanks to prevent waterborne diseases.
• Sustainability: Formation of “WASH Clubs” and student parliaments to monitor cleanliness.
B. Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM)
We break the silence around menstruation to keep girls in school.
• Hardware: Installation of incinerators for safe, dignified disposal of sanitary napkins.
• Software: Awareness workshops for adolescent girls on hygiene, health, and breaking taboos.
C. Community-Based Renovation
Supported by Global Village Renewal
Targeting dilapidated private/aided schools that lack government funding access.
• Scope: Complete restoration of plumbing, electrical, and structural elements to convert unsafe buildings into vibrant, child-friendly spaces (e.g., R.C. School, Keezhvailambur).
4.Impact at a Glance
Metric | Achievement |
School Reach | 100 Schools targeted for comprehensive WASH upgrades. |
Hygiene Adoption | 98% of target families demonstrate improved sanitation practices. |
Girl Child Retention | Significant reduction in absenteeism due to MHM facilities. |
Governance | 100% of SMCs in project schools are now managing WASH maintenance funds transparently. |
5.Partner Showcase
