Schools in Punjab to form ECO WASH Clubs
In order to facilitate the formation of Eco WASH Clubs in schools across Punjab, to provide awareness on hygiene and sanitation including menstrual hygiene management (MHM), a two-day training programme was held in Jalandhar, Punjab on 27th and 28th May, 2019.
Organised by Pushpa Gujral Science City (PGSC), Jalandhar in association with Department of Water Supply and Sanitation (DWSS), Punjab, the event saw the participation of school teachers from across the state.
Among the resource persons were Mr. Amit Talwar, Head of Department, DWSS, Ms. Neelima Jairath, Director General, PGSC, and Dr Rajesh Grover, Director, PGSC.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Talwar informed teachers about the efforts taken by Punjab to attain ODF (open defecation free) status; emphasizing that the State is committed to ensuring sustainability of the same. Teachers play a vital role in promoting and inculcating good habits in their students, he emphasized.
On the other hand, Ms. Jairath appealed to the teachers of all middle and senior secondary schools to form ECO WASH Clubs and spread awareness about good health and hygiene. The main tasks of the club were to promote good sanitation habits, save water, eliminate open defecation and ensure 100% toilet usage, she added.
In addition, participants were oriented to various sanitation aspects such as safe disposal of child feces, menstrual hygiene, etc., the latter being the main focus area. Break the taboo surrounding menstruation and speak to adolescent girls opening about the issue, she urged. Teachers were to take on the role of informing students about MHM, including use of clean sanitary pads and their safe disposal.
A leaflet with facts, myths, and dos and don’ts about menstruation; and another to promote awareness on composting were distributed to participants.
(Inputs: Sevya Sharma, Team SBM, Punjab)
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