A PROJECT TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER, SANITATION, HYGIENE AND HEALTHY NUTRITION IN ANTANTAPUR, INDIA.

Access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and healthy nutrition is essential for human life and healthy development – especially for children. In the Indian district of Anantapur, a region subject to recurrent droughts, the lack of clean water is a serious problem. Drinking water sources are often contaminated by unfiltered wastewater. This is one of the reasons why diarrhoeal and infectious diseases are often the cause of death among children.

NEGATIVE IMPACT ON EDUCATION

Water scarcity and inadequate access to sanitary facilities have a direct impact on the educational opportunities of children and young people. This is reflected in the fact that regions affected by drought, water pollution or food shortages – including the state of Andhra Pradesh – have a significantly higher school dropout rate. Girls are particularly affected, as a lack of sanitary facilities often prevents them from attending school when they have their periods.

ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER, SANITATION, GOOD HYGIENE PRACTICES AND HEALTHY NUTRITION

Anantapur Sports Academy (ASA) is SA4D’s well-established local partner. The joint project aims to provide access to clean water, sanitation, hygiene practices and improved nutrition and thus contribute to the improved health of school children at the ASA campus.

CONSTRUCTION OF A SUSTAINABLE WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEM

On the one hand, this is achieved by installing a sustainable wastewater treatment system. Black and grey water are treated to be reused as industrial water and agricultural fertiliser.

SPORT- AND PLAY-BASED TRAININGS ON HYGIENE PRACTICES

On the other hand, school children are trained through interactive methods to be mindful of scarce resources and of their own health, to maintain good hygiene and to use the sanitation and water facilities properly.

BALANCED NUTRITION

Nutrition and food production are also key. The school’s kitchen garden provides the children with regular and balanced meals. Furthermore, the school children participate in hands-on activities in the garden, gaining practical skills in growing and processing vegetables.