Effectiveness of a School-Based Intervention on WASH Infrastructure in Residential Schools of Wardha District, India

Sarika Uttamrao  Dakhode; Abhay Motiramji Gaidhane; Sonali Gajanan Choudhari

doi:10.55489/njcm.160520255038

Authors

Sarika Uttamrao Dakhode Department of Community Medicine, Dr Panjabrao Deshmukh Memorial Medical College, Amravati, Maharashtra, India
Abhay Motiramji Gaidhane Department of Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical Collage, DMIHER (DU), Sawangi, Maharashtra, India https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4814-2695
Sonali Gajanan Choudhari Department of Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical Collage, DMIHER (DU), Sawangi, Maharashtra, India https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5495-1053

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55489/njcm.160520255038

Keywords:

Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, WASH in Schools, WinS, WASH Intervention

Abstract

Introduction: Various WASH programs are running at the National level, however; coverage, barriers and challenges for WASH implementation in underprivileged sectors are rarely assessed. Aim & Objectives: To assess the effect of a school-based intervention on WASH infrastructure at the residential school level.

Methodology: This experimental study was conducted in eight ashram schools of district Wardha (Maharashtra) that were allocated to intervention and control groups. The intervention consists of providing a module for promoting safe drinking WASH practices and hands-on training of teachers and staff. Baseline and endpoint data were collected by using a checklist and questionnaire developed by WHO and UNICEF. The score for WASH practices was analyzed.

Results: Chlorination method was adopted in all beneficiary schools. All water samples collected from beneficiary schools were free from any micro-organisms. Score for availability, accessibility and maintenance of sanitation, hygiene facilities, and cleanliness improved up to 75% in intervention as compare to control schools. Basic services of hand washing facilities, i.e. availability of water and soap were, achieved by 75% intervention and 25% control schools.

Conclusions: Intervention was based on local engagement, which was found to be advantageous in promoting the school environment for safe WASH facilities at satisfactory level in beneficiary schools.

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