Seema Puri , Nidhi Gulati
This paper explores school as the site
for examining hygiene and cleanliness. The aims of the study were to examine
aspects of school hygiene, understand children’s needs and to equip primary
school children with tools and capacities to develop and sustain body and
environmental hygiene through an intervention.
Children studying in primary classes
from twelve schools run by the local urban municipal body in Delhi participated
in the study. 846 and 656 children were interviewed during pre and post
intervention phases respectively. Data was collected in the form of
observations, interviews and children’s responses on hygiene practices. Data
was coded and subjected to statistical analysis. Based on data obtained in the
baseline assessment, a Health Hygiene Education Module was designed. The
pedagogy was based on discussions, demonstrations, storytelling, activities,
interactive games and takeaways. Post intervention, a significant increase in
percentage of children who reported following effective practices in aspects of
oral hygiene, handwashing and use of toilets. Children were motivated and keen
to learn. However, lack of infrastructure, resources and basic facilities like
running water and soap was observed. Supervision and monitoring of all aspects
of hygiene in the school needs to be strengthened.
Children’s health, school
hygiene, handwashing
VOL.14, ISSUE No.1, March 2022