SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM 2ND PHASE COMPLETION

Following the success of our initial project being completed at the Government School Paharganj in Ajmer we have now finished the second stage of our School Improvement Program with toilets and incinerators having been installed in 3 more schools and the RASM (Right to access Sustainable Menstruation) program successfully delivered to school children in 5 more schools.

Sanitation Facilities

Even the most basic toilet facilities are often lacking in the schools we have seen and so the opportunity to have new toilet blocks constructed is one we have been only to happy to take on. The children now have good facilities and hand washing capabilities which stops students from leaving school to go home, often not returning, or using local fields.

In addition, sanitary incinerators have been installed to ensure safer and environmentally friendly disposal of sanitary products which helps with the RASM program we are running alongside the toilet builds.

RASM (Right to Access Sustainable Menstruation)

The main objectives of the RASM program are:

• To enhance awareness among adolescent girls and boys on physical and mental health, with a special emphasis on menstrual health and hygiene.
• To develop a deeper understanding of gender-related social issues, harmful practices, and practical solutions among adolescents.
• To build a strong support system and community network for adolescents and young adults, ensuring the long-term retention and sustainability of the project’s impact.

The program is delivered by local youth leaders, trained up with the knowledge, facilitation skills, and confidence needed to deliver accurate and relatable health education that continues well beyond the project period.

This local connection, usually ex pupils and accessible role models, ensures that the information surrounding this delicate subject is offered by someone the pupils trust rather than an unfamiliar figure from outside the local environment.

A significant feature is that it is delivered to boys as well which helps break down the barriers and taboos that exist between male and female discussions, or lack of, surrounding this subject. Slow yet vital steps towards a much more open dialogue and understanding and shedding the negative myths that have been present for many, many years.

The final impact reports for the program show significant increases in awareness surrounding all aspects of menstruation including biological knowledge, steps to help during the process, product access and disposal and diet.

Summary

This combination of improved infrastructure and education have multiple benefits on the school children and their families and for a relatively small outlay not only encourages attendance but offers much better conditions in which to complete their early education successfully.

We will be continuing to expand the project in the months ahead and if you would like to be involved then please get in touch.

Get in touch now and help us continue with our School Improvement Program : paul@thejansenfoundation.org