ITC Supported CSR activity 2024-25

Supporting Girls’ Education Through Improved Sanitation

Children thrive academically and socially when nurtured in clean, hygienic environments. Unfortunately, inadequate Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities in schools often become a barrier, especially for girls. The lack of proper sanitation discourages parents from sending their daughters to school, contributing to high dropout rates, particularly during puberty.

Menstrual hygiene management remains a major challenge in many institutions. Without access to sanitary facilities such as incinerators for the safe disposal of napkins and private toilets, girls face discomfort, absenteeism, and shame, resulting in reduced attendance and lower educational attainment. When sanitation facilities are absent or poorly maintained, schools can turn into health hazards, affecting not only students but the wider community.

🚺 The Need for Girl-Friendly Toilets

A girl-friendly toilet is more than just a restroom—it’s a safe space that fosters dignity, health, and empowerment. These facilities typically include:

• Privacy-enabled urinals with doors

• Latrines fitted with Indian/European water closets

• Incinerators for hygienic disposal of menstrual waste

• Handwashing stations with soap and clean water

These features ensure that girls can manage their menstrual health discreetly and comfortably, encouraging better attendance and engagement.

🛠️ Progress in Action

The construction of girl-friendly toilets was marked by a Bhoomi Pooja ceremony held on 31.01.2025. The event was graced by Mr. K.P. Sankar, MLA, as the Chief Guest, along with representatives from ITC—Mr. Devarajan and Mr. Sugan. School leadership, including the headmaster, teachers, and School Management Committee members, participated enthusiastically.

Representatives from the INDIA NGO—Mr. Krishnamurthy, Ms. Subbulakshmi, Ms. Srivaramangai, and Mr. Pramodh Kumar joined the Project Team members in reaffirming their commitment to empowering girls through improved WASH infrastructure.