11/11/2024
Visit to Climate-Resilient Schools in Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag and Chamoli districts! ✨🌍
A team from AIIMS Rishikesh, Department of Community and Family Medicine, recently visited four Dettol Climate-Resilient Schools in Damta and Athali (Uttarkashi) and Pakhi (Chamoli) and Ratura (Rudraprayag). This visit was organized by Plan India and Reckitt, under the guidance and support of our HOD, Prof (Dr.) Vartika Saxena. The purpose of the visit was to strengthen collaboration with school authorities, observe the implementation of Reckitt’s hand hygiene and safe drinking water interventions, and check the feasibility of objectives of the evaluation research project.
Our team—Dr. Mahendra Singh (Additional Professor), Dr. Teja SRK (Senior Resident), Dr. Amrita Mehndiratta (MPH Tutor), and MPH first-year students Dr. Shikha and Dr. Rohit—was warmly welcomed at each school by principals, teachers, and students. We witnessed cultural performances by the students, from traditional Garhwali dances to thought-provoking nukkad nataks and poems promoting environmental conservation and awareness of climate change.
In engaging sessions, we talked to students about the importance of hand hygiene and demonstrated the steps of effective handwashing. We also conducted pilot testing for our data collection tools to ensure they capture meaningful insights for the project.
At Athali school, we were inspired by the high level of community engagement, with parents and local authority representatives actively involved in the School Management Committee. At Ratura, we enjoyed a heartwarming midday meal with the students, and at Athali, we were treated to delicious Garhwali food. Conversations with teachers provided valuable insights into the positive changes observed since Reckitt’s interventions began and revealed their hopes for further improvements.
This visit not only highlighted the enthusiasm and commitment of school communities toward climate resilience but also inspired us to continue working toward sustainable health and hygiene practices. Together, we’re building a healthier, climate-conscious future for these young learners. 🌱💧🧼
