Introduction
Katali Village, is a small community located about 20 kilometers from Gadchiroli, a place where agriculture is the primary livelihood, supported by animal husbandry and poultry farming. With a population of 1,554 and a literacy rate of 80%, Katali is a village full of potential, yet like many rural communities, it faces several challenges. One such challenge was the lack of proper sanitation facilities of the Zilla Parishad Higher Primary School, which serves 125 students from I to VII grade, including 61 boys and 64 girls.
Sanitation crisis at Katali School
The school had two toilet units, but they were old, dilapidated, and unusable. Waste accumulation around the school premises created an unhygienic environment that led to the spread of diseases. This poor sanitation especially impacted the attendance of adolescent girls. During menstruation, many girls were unable to attend school because of improper sanitation facilities. As a result, their education was disrupted and many girls dropped out or were often absent. This drove many parents to enroll their children in private schools, further worsening the problem. Teachers and the School Management Committee repeatedly raised the issue with the Gram Panchayat, but efforts to repair the old toilets were unsuccessful. Building new toilets would need a lot of money and without enough resources, the problem seemed impossible to solve.
“We kept asking for help, but nothing changed. “The toilets were unusable and our students were suffering. It was heartbreaking to watch the children, especially the girls, miss school regularly because of this.” said Ms. Sarita Devikar, School Principal
The Role of CYDA
The turning point came when CYDA stepped in and actively worked to address the issue. They initiated discussions with the school principal, Ms. Sarita Devikar, and the SMC members, highlighting the urgency of the situation. CYDA provided guidance, coordinated efforts, and helped facilitate strong communication between the school and the Gram Panchayat. Their persistence led to a resolution being passed during the 2019 Gram Sabha, securing the funds needed for the construction of new toilet facilities through the 14th Finance Commission. CYDA’s dedicated involvement was crucial in turning the situation around.
A Breakthrough in 2019
CYDA’s intervention was a game changer. They facilitated the construction of two new toilet units, transforming the school and community. With the new facilities, girls no longer missed school during menstruation. CYDA also helped introduce monthly menstrual hygiene sessions led by ASHA workers and female teachers, providing crucial education, breaking taboos, and empowering girls. The school installed an RO filter for safe drinking water, set up an eight-tap Handwash Station, and provided a separate garbage can for menstrual hygiene products, promoting hygiene, proper disposal, and reducing environmental waste.
“Thanks to the new toilets and the awareness sessions, our girls can attend school even during their periods. This has given them a sense of dignity and confidence,” said Ms. Devikar,
“Before the toilets were built, the school was often empty, especially when girls were absent. Now, we have more students, and everyone is healthier,” said one of the teachers, smiling at the noticeable change in the classroom atmosphere.
Thanks to the unwavering efforts of CYDA, the SMC, and the Gram Panchayat, the school in Katali has transformed from a place of neglect to one of hope and growth.
Urinals for boys Toilets for girls
