Rotary-Corporate tie-up enhances school experience

Rotary Club of Kashipur, RID 3110, joined hands with Naini Group, a reputed paper ­manufacturer, to ­provide sanitation and drinking water facility in ­government schools in the town. When Rotary ­Foundation (India) opened its door to accept CSR funds for global grants, Pawan ­Agarwal, Managing Director of the ­corporate, and a member of the club, earmarked the company’s CSR funds for the club’s WinS, and Basic Education and Literacy projects.

The Rotarians shortlisted six schools that were ­dismally lacking in WASH facilities and provided ­gender-based ­toilets, handwash stations and drinking water facilities there.

The club’s intervention brought better practices in more than 1,200 students by encouraging improved hygiene, and making handwashing with soap a part of their everyday routine. Teachers and support staff, local and religious leaders were trained to implement the  programme in their respective schools and ­community to ensure that it is sustained beyond the project lifespan.

Naini group will bear the salary of the sanitation staff in each school initially for three years, after which it will rest on the schools. The club members visit the schools regularly basis and interact with the school management committee. The club aims to implement another grant for upgrading school infrastructure.