NEW DELHI (India CSR): In a powerful effort to instill good hygiene habits among school children, the ASSOCHAM Foundation for Corporate Social Responsibility (AFCSR), in collaboration with the Air Force Golden Jubilee Institute, organized an interactive handwashing awareness event as part of the ‘Illness to Wellness’ campaign.
With the support of hygiene brand Savlon, the event focused on educating students about the importance of handwashing as a simple yet effective method to prevent illnesses, boost immunity, and promote overall well-being.
By fostering early awareness and engagement, the initiative aims to create lifelong hygiene habits that extend beyond schools and into communities.
Engaging Students in Interactive Learning
The event brought together 650 primary school students from grades III to V, along with 80 specially-abled children, for a hands-on learning experience.
Key activities included:
- Live demonstrations by health experts on proper handwashing techniques.
- Interactive sessions explaining how handwashing reduces the spread of germs.
- Engaging quizzes to reinforce the importance of maintaining hygiene.
- A pledge by students to practice and promote regular handwashing.
Teachers and staff also actively participated, guiding students on proper handwashing methods using soap and water. The goal was to instill this essential habit early, ensuring it becomes second nature in their daily lives.
Hygiene as a Tool for a Healthier Tomorrow
Speaking at the event, Anil Rajput, Chairperson, ASSOCHAM National Council on CSR, emphasized the transformative impact of hygiene education:
“School children can be powerful agents of change, influencing not just themselves but also their families and communities. Through initiatives like ‘Illness to Wellness,’ we aim to empower young minds with essential health knowledge. By promoting handwashing awareness, we are laying the foundation for a healthier nation.”
Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to reduce absenteeism in schools, preventing common illnesses like colds, flu, and stomach infections. This initiative helps students understand the direct link between cleanliness and better health, ensuring they stay active, focused, and engaged in learning.
Creating a Ripple Effect of Hygiene Awareness
The impact of the initiative goes beyond the classroom. Students were encouraged to share their knowledge with their families and neighbors, reinforcing the importance of hygiene in everyday life.
Alka Singh, Principal, Air Force Golden Jubilee Institute, highlighted why handwashing should be an essential habit for children:
“We’ve always been told to wash our hands before meals, but today, this practice is even more critical. Handwashing protects us from pollutants, infections, and diseases. When ingrained from childhood, it becomes a habit that benefits us throughout life.”
The event aligned with global health campaigns, reinforcing the need for sustainable hygiene practices in schools and beyond.
Building a Culture of Cleanliness and Health
Since its launch in 2014, the ‘Illness to Wellness’ campaign has remained committed to:
- Promoting preventive healthcare through awareness and education.
- Empowering communities by providing accessible health information.
- Collaborating with key stakeholders to drive sustainable change.
- Organizing health camps, awareness programs, and expert-led discussions on hygiene and wellness.
By continuously expanding its outreach and impact, AFCSR aims to instill lasting hygiene habits that contribute to stronger, healthier communities.
A Commitment to Health and Well-Being
With ongoing support from AFCSR, Savlon, and educational institutions, the ‘Illness to Wellness’ initiative is making hygiene education a key pillar of student well-being.
By ensuring that handwashing becomes a daily habit, this initiative is setting the stage for a healthier, more informed generation—one that values preventive care and self-responsibility.
(India CSR)
