‘Illness To Wellness’ Celebrates Global Handwashing Day With Awareness Drive For 28,000 Students

In a significant effort to promote healthy habits and hygiene practices, the ASSOCHAM Foundation for Corporate Social Responsibility (AFSCR) organised an extensive awareness drive across New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) schools on the occasion of Global Handwashing Day. This initiative reached nearly 28,000 students from 43 schools, emphasising the importance of proper handwashing techniques.

Supported by hygiene brand Savlon, the program adopted a hub-and-spoke model, featuring a major event at Atal Aadarsh Bengali Balika Vidyalaya in Gole Market, along with parallel activities in other NDMC schools. This initiative aligns with various government efforts to transform the critical water, sanitation, and hygiene sectors.

Anil Rajput, Chairperson of the ASSOCHAM National CSR Council, highlighted the long-term benefits of instilling good hygiene habits at a young age. “Every year, about 1.8 million children under the age of five die from diarrheal diseases and pneumonia due to poor hand hygiene,” he noted. “Incorporating handwashing into daily routines is essential for leading a healthy life and contributes to nation-building.”

Shri Pramod Kumar, Academic Consultant at NDMC, remarked on the initiative’s potential impact. “Awareness and behaviour formation from an early age have a multiplying effect on public health. Today’s event not only underscores the importance of handwashing but also imparts valuable lessons about personal hygiene’s impact on society.”

Deepak Sood, Secretary General of ASSOCHAM, emphasised the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of handwashing in promoting overall hygiene and public health. “Initiatives like this reinforce the need for better hygiene practices and the vital role of clean hands in saving lives,” he stated.

To engage students effectively, the event included short, captivating videos in classrooms and assemblies, driving home the significance of handwashing. Students also pledged to adhere to proper hygiene practices and educate others about the importance of handwashing.

Launched in 2014, the ‘Illness to Wellness’ campaign is dedicated to promoting health and well-being through education and sustainable health practices. Over the years, it has maximised outreach through camps, awareness campaigns, and regular webinars on key health topics, with a clear mission to raise awareness and provide motivation for healthier lifestyles.