On May 1, 2024, the NIMS Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences organized an impactful awareness program on clean water and sanitation at Shyam Senior Secondary School in Chandwaji village, Jaipur, Rajasthan. This initiative was part of NIMS University’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, which emphasizes ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all as a fundamental human right and a critical aspect of sustainable development.

Program Objectives

The primary goals of this awareness initiative were:

1. Educating Students: Raise awareness among students about the importance of clean water and sanitation in daily life and its connection to health and sustainability.
2. Promoting Sustainable Practices: Encourage water conservation, sanitation facility improvement, and the adoption of sustainable habits to ensure long-term resource availability.
3. Building Community Engagement: Involve the local community in discussions about water quality, sanitation infrastructure, and related challenges.

Activities and Interactions

During the one-hour program, a group of 70 students from grades 11 and 12 actively participated in the session. The activities included interactive discussions, hands-on demonstrations, and question-and-answer sessions. The topics covered were:

• Water Quality and Availability: Students were educated about the importance of drinking clean water and the risks of consuming contaminated water.
• Sanitation Practices: The session emphasized proper sanitation habits, including the use of toilets and the significance of personal hygiene.
• Rainwater Harvesting: Participants learned about the role of rainwater harvesting in mitigating water shortages.
• Water Conservation Techniques: The discussion included practical methods to reduce water wastage at home and in school.
• Use of Filters: Students were informed about affordable options for purifying water, such as tap and home filters, to ensure safety.

Key Observations

The program uncovered several insights about the local community and its water and sanitation practices:

1. Engaged Participation: Students were attentive, enthusiastic, and actively contributed to discussions. They shared their own experiences and raised pertinent questions, indicating a high level of interest and awareness.
2. Identified Gaps: Through interactive sessions, the team identified areas for improvement, such as the need for better access to water purification systems and enhanced sanitation facilities.
3. Community Challenges: Students highlighted the periodic challenges of water shortages in their region, underlining the urgency of sustainable solutions.

Outcomes and Impact

The awareness program successfully achieved its objectives by:

1. Empowering Young Minds: By equipping students with knowledge about clean water and sanitation, the program fostered a sense of responsibility and environmental stewardship among the younger generation.
2. Fostering Practical Understanding: Interactive sessions provided students with actionable insights into sustainable water usage and sanitation practices.
3. Encouraging Dialogue: The event promoted meaningful discussions between faculty members, students, and community representatives, paving the way for collaborative problem-solving.

Broader Implications

This initiative was not an isolated event but part of a larger strategy by NIMS University to contribute to the United Nations SDGs. The Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences has been consistently involved in educational and outreach activities that integrate global goals with local actions. By addressing critical issues like water scarcity, sanitation, and public health, the university demonstrates its commitment to creating a sustainable future.

The awareness program also aligns with government initiatives such as the Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, both aimed at ensuring safe drinking water and improved sanitation across India. By complementing these efforts, the university reinforces its role as a catalyst for change in society.

Conclusion

The May 1, 2024, awareness program by the NIMS Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences was a testament to the institution’s dedication to sustainability and social responsibility. Through education and community engagement, the program inspired students to adopt sustainable water and sanitation practices and highlighted the broader importance of SDG 6.

As the program concludes, it leaves a lasting impact, empowering the community to take actionable steps toward ensuring clean water and sanitation for all. With continued efforts, NIMS University envisions a future where such initiatives contribute significantly to a healthier, more equitable, and sustainable world.