HYDERABAD (India CSR): In a significant step toward improving school hygiene and sanitation, DuPont CSR, in collaboration with Safe Water Network India (NGO), inaugurated new toilet facilities at two schools in Secunderabad—Government High School for Girls (GHS(G)) in Bowenpally and Government High School in Mudfort, Thirumalai Nagar.
This initiative aims to enhance health and hygiene standards for 1,120 students, providing access to 26 new toilets and 44 urinals across both schools. The upgraded infrastructure ensures that students, particularly girls, have access to clean and well-maintained sanitation facilities, fostering better hygiene, improved attendance, and a healthier learning environment.
A Critical Step for Student Well-Being
For many students, particularly in underserved schools, the lack of proper toilet facilities can be a major barrier to regular attendance. Inadequate sanitation often leads to health concerns, discomfort, and even dropout rates, especially among young girls.
Madhusudan Reddy, Principal of Bowenpally School, expressed gratitude for the initiative, stating:
“Clean, functional toilets are fundamental to schools and a big step for students’ health and academic achievement. We are grateful for this infrastructure and the additional support for cleaning supplies and maintenance. Along with the safe drinking water treatment plant set up earlier, this initiative greatly benefits our students.”
Similarly, Irene Suprada, Principal of Mudfort School, emphasized the transformative impact of proper sanitation:
“Previously, many students, particularly girls, had no access to toilets and had to go home during school hours. This initiative ensures they can comfortably stay in school, maintain hygiene, and focus on their education without disruption.”
Engaging Students in Hygiene Awareness
As part of the inauguration event, students presented a skit on health and hygiene, delivered speeches on the importance of maintaining clean toilets, and demonstrated proper handwashing techniques. These activities reinforced the need for personal and environmental cleanliness, ensuring students take ownership of the new facilities.
DuPont CSR’s Commitment to Sustainable Impact
DuPont’s leadership team attended the event, reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to social responsibility. Representatives included:
- Krishan Phophalia – Financial Controller, India/ANZ
- Uma Sreeramulu – Service Delivery Leader, Global Procurement
- Seetha Ramanjaneyulu – Financial Controller
- Sukhendu Bandu – Manager, E2E Service Management
- Tatyana Dyadyuk – Executive Assistant
A Sustainable Future with Safe Water and Sanitation
Beyond providing infrastructure, Safe Water Network India plays a crucial role in maintaining and educating students on hygiene practices.
Poonam Sewak, Vice President of Programs & Partnerships at Safe Water Network India, highlighted their commitment:
“Safe Water Network is dedicated to School WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), ensuring sustainable infrastructure and conducting awareness programs. We support over 75 schools, impacting 30,000 students, through hygiene education, skits, and school campaigns.”
Building a Healthier and Hygienic Tomorrow
By investing in clean water and sanitation, DuPont CSR and Safe Water Network India are helping students stay healthy, improving school retention rates, and fostering a culture of hygiene and well-being. This initiative is a model for how corporate partnerships can drive meaningful social change, ensuring every child has access to safe and clean school environments.
(India CSR)
