United Way of Chennai (UWC) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) have partnered to improve sanitation and hygiene in schools. The mission involves constructing and refurbishing school toilet blocks and promoting proper hygiene practices, particularly washing hands, self-hygiene and menstrual hygiene. This initiative aims to enhance the well-being of children by providing clean and safe sanitation facilities, which are essential for health and educational outcomes. 

As part of Project Aakkam, this Program, titled WASH Infrastructure Development Facility in Schools, was implemented aligned with Sustainable Development Goal number 4 (Quality Education) & 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) 

The primary objectives are to construct and renovate toilet blocks in five government schools in Chennai, improve sanitation facilities, and raise awareness about wash & menstrual hygiene among students.  

The Impact 

The 5 Government schools benefiting from this initiative are Government High School in Mettukuppam (390 students), Government Higher Secondary School in Alapakkam (1,281 students), Government Higher Secondary School in Maduravoyal (872 students), Chettiar Agaram Panchayat Union Middle School in Villivakkam Chettyar Agram (169 students), and Panchayat Union Middle School in Poothapedu (255 students). A total of 2,967 students were impacted by this initiative.  

The process started with a comprehensive needs assessment to identify the specific requirements of each school. This is followed by a baseline assessment to gather data for progress measurement. Detailed specifications and cost estimates are then developed in the Bill of Quantities (BoQ) preparation stage. Qualified vendors are engaged through a transparent selection process. The implementation phase involves executing construction and refurbishment activities. Regular site visits are conducted to monitor progress and ensure quality standards. An educational program raises awareness among students about proper hygiene practices & menstrual hygiene for girl students. these facilities were handed over to the schools and an end-line evaluation assessed the overall impact of the project. 

This initiative by United Way of Chennai and Larsen & Toubro committed to fostering healthier and more dignified educational environments through improved sanitation and hygiene facilities. By addressing critical needs in five government schools, this project enhances the immediate health and well-being of students and sets a sustainable model for community-driven change.       

To know more about this, click this link – L&T REPORTpdf.pdf