On August 23, 2024, OneAdvanced reached a significant milestone in its community development mission with the construction of a state-of-the-art sanitation facility at Somasandrapalya Government School in Bangalore. This initiative underscores our commitment to enhancing education and hygiene in underprivileged areas, addressing critical challenges faced by schools across India.
Addressing sanitation challenges: The need for action
Inadequate sanitation in schools is a pressing issue, particularly for adolescent girls. Studies reveal that approximately 23% of girls in India drop out of school after reaching puberty due to the lack of proper sanitary facilities. This dropout rate directly impacts their educational opportunities and future prospects. By focusing on improving sanitary infrastructure, we aim to combat this barrier and ensure that girls can continue their education without the hindrance of poor hygiene conditions.
Impact on gender parity
The lack of adequate sanitary facilities contributes to a broader gender gap in the workplace. Girls who miss school due to sanitation issues often face limited educational attainment, which translates into fewer opportunities and lower participation rates in the workforce. At OneAdvanced, we are dedicated to closing this gap. Our efforts extend beyond infrastructure; we are committed to fostering gender parity at the grassroots level, ensuring that every girl has the chance to succeed academically and professionally.
Building best-in-class sanitary infrastructure
Our contribution to constructing top-tier sanitary facilities at Somasandrapalya Government School represents more than just a physical improvement—it is a commitment to upholding the fundamental right to education. Designed with sustainability in mind, the new facilities feature durable materials and easy upkeep, ensuring that no girl at the school is deprived of her educational opportunities due to poor sanitation and hygiene.
Promoting health and empowerment
Alongside the new infrastructure, we have addressed menstrual hygiene through educational sessions for adolescent girls. These sessions provide essential knowledge and boost confidence in managing personal health. Additionally, we have installed a sanitary pad vending machine, giving students easy access to necessary hygiene products and supporting their retention and well-being.
Celebrating collective efforts
The event organised at the school was a heartfelt celebration of collaboration and community spirit. Special thanks go to Sally Scott, Chief Marketing and ESG Officer, whose sponsorship was pivotal in realising this vision. The event was marked by inspiring messages from OneAdvanced leaders and touching performances by students, reflecting the joy and hope this project has brought.
Looking Forward: Sustained impact and future endeavours
Our commitment to Somasandrapalya Government School goes beyond the completion of these facilities. OneAdvanced will maintain a strong partnership with the school, ensuring the facilities continue to meet student needs effectively. Through ongoing volunteer efforts and support, we aim to drive community empowerment through sustainable development and education.
This initiative in Bangalore exemplifies how targeted actions can create meaningful change and highlights OneAdvanced's dedication to community development and gender parity. As we look to the future, we remain focused on empowering communities and advancing progress through impactful initiatives.