School sanitation and hygiene education

Schools are a stimulating learning environment for children and stimulate or initiate change. It is generally recognized that childhood is the best time for learning hygienic bahaviours. Improved hygiene practices are essential if transmission routes of water and sanitation related diseases are to be cut and children are the most vulnerable victims of these diseases. In Bangladesh now there is a primary school in almost every village and that has a central place in the community. If water & sanitation facilities are available in schools they can be treated as model, teachers and students can function as role models. Schools can also influence communities through outreach activities. If facilities are not available at schools or are badly used & maintained schools become risky place and centers for disease transmission and health hazards for children and community at large. The SSHE project started in late 1992 in collaboration with DPHE & DPE and supported by UNICEF - DHAKA.