Equity in School Water and Sanitation

Overcoming Exclusion and Discrimination in South AsiaCountry Report BhutanForewordA study was commissioned by UNICEF ROSA in order to understand the interplay of inclusion andexclusion related to Water, Sanitation and Education. The purpose of this study was to generatesufficient evidence to raise awareness on the role played by water and sanitation in discriminationwithin the classroom. A four country qualitative research study was initiated in Bhutan, Nepal,Bangladesh, and India. The data collection and field work were carried out in Lalitpur and Mirzapurdistricts of Uttar Pradesh, India.The objectives of the study were: To examine, in India, the relationship between water and sanitation related issues and the ways inwhich they affect the opportunities of those who belong to a group perceived as being unclean. To identify and record instances of good practices. To explore the possibility of good practice in schools having a transformative role in altering traditionaldiscriminatory practices.It is believed that at the high school and secondary school level, lack of toilet facilities could lead topoor attendance of students, especially of girls. This study has examined the extent to which thepresence of toilets and safe drinking water support learning, and positively influence regular attendanceof students, especially of girls. Inclusion and exclusion related issues in the sample schools havebeen analysed through interaction with parents, children, and teachers.The study found evidence of subtle and not-so-subtle forms of exclusion within schools based uponthe existing caste/class structure. The attitudes and beliefs of teachers reflected their prejudicesagainst some groups of children in schools. It was also found that where teachers have a positive andinclusive attitude and a sense of ownership, it is reflected in the school environment.On the positive side, children were observed washing their hands before the midday meal, though notalways with soap. The study also found that girls are determined to study and that absence of toiletswould not deter or discourage them. However, their school life would be better if they had access to aclean and safe toilet.The study makes some important recommendations based on the evidence gathered. It is of primaryimportance to alter teacher behaviour and attitudes through training/orientation programmes forteachers, teacher educators and educational administrators on inclusion and exclusion.Finally, the study finds that if a programme is to make any meaningful impact, it must start with thecommunity and move towards the school. It will need community support and ownership if theprogramme gains are to be sustained.Daniel TooleRegional DirectorUNICEF ROSAv