ITC Mission Sunehra Kal: Child-Friendly Schools & Anganwadi Centres

Since 2022–23, ITC Limited, under its Mission Sunehra Kal programme, in partnership with CLPOA and the Government of West Bengal, has been transforming schools and Anganwadi Centres in Howrah District by improving WASH and non-WASH infrastructure, promoting hygiene, and creating child-friendly learning environments. The project has benefited 9,042 students in 51 schools, reached 13,400 children through behaviour change campaigns, and upgraded 65 Anganwadi Centres.

 Key interventions included construction of gender-segregated toilets, handwashing stations, school and AWC renovation, BALA paintings, rainwater harvesting, water-saving technologies, Child Cabinets, Eco Clubs, teacher training, and community engagement to ensure sustainability.

 The project has increased school enrolment (80–85%), improved attendance to over 80%, enhanced handwashing practices (75%), and reduced girls' absenteeism by 40% through improved sanitation facilities. At Tildanri Khanjadapur Primary School, girls' enrolment increased by 9.4% within a year, demonstrating the project's positive impact on education, hygiene, and gender inclusion.

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WISE (WASH in Schools for Everyone) – SPLASH

CLPOA has been promoting Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) in schools since 2005. In partnership with Splash International and the Government of West Bengal, the WISE project currently supports 460 Government schools in Kolkata, improving safe drinking water, sanitation, hygiene practices, menstrual health, and sustainable WASH infrastructure.

Key Achievements

• 460 Government schools covered.
• 22,600 students and 72 teachers engaged through WASH activities.
• 1,689 students and 79 teachers participated in World Water Day.
• 25 Parent Meetings and 156 teachers from 26 schools oriented on WASH.
• 37 Child Cabinet meetings and 9 training programmes strengthened student leadership.
• 162 schools monitored for WASH practices; 346 schools received O&M training.
• 160 schools underwent water quality testing.
• 17 new filters installed and 224 schools supported through Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMC).

The programme continues to strengthen healthy behaviours, improve school attendance, and ensure sustainable access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities for thousands of children.