Social audit reveals poor hygiene standards in Hamirpur schools
Hamirpur, June 22
A social audit of government schools in Hamirpur district has highlighted serious concerns over hygiene, sanitation, and safe drinking water facilities, raising questions about the quality of the school environment available to students.
The findings were presented during a public hearing attended by parents, teachers, School Management Committee members, elected representatives, education officials, and local residents.
The audit was conducted by a team from Himachal Pradesh University led by Dr. Randhir Ranta, covering 146 schools across the district.
According to the report, although drinking water facilities were available in most schools, nearly 97 per cent of the institutions failed to provide certified safe drinking water for students.
The audit observed that the absence of regular water quality testing could expose children to health risks and water-borne diseases.
Sanitation facilities for children with special needs were also found to be inadequate. Around 63 per cent of schools lacked toilets designed for differently-abled students, while nearly 84 per cent did not have barrier-free access to school premises.
The shortcomings were seen as major obstacles to creating an inclusive and healthy learning environment.
The audit further revealed that menstrual hygiene management remains a neglected area. More than 19 per cent of schools surveyed were not providing sanitary pads to adolescent girls.
Members of the audit team said the lack of menstrual hygiene facilities could adversely affect the health, dignity, and attendance of girl students.
The report also noted that over one-fourth of the schools did not have boundary walls or fencing, creating concerns about cleanliness, safety, and protection of school premises from stray animals and outside interference.
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Presenting the findings, Dr. Randhir Ranta said the purpose of the audit was to identify gaps and improve the quality of education and school facilities.
Education officials assured that the shortcomings highlighted in the report would be addressed to ensure a healthier and safer environment for students.
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