Sanitation push: TN to train college teachers, students

As most of the colleges in the State do not follow good sanitation and hygiene practices, the Directorate of Collegiate Education has been instructed to train members of the faculty and students to keep the institution premises clean through the year.

A total of 69 government arts and science colleges and 24 university constituent colleges in the state will benefit from the scheme. A senior official in the directorate said hygiene and sanitation practices had a direct impact on health and students could be easily educated on correct practices. The official said this could be a cost-effective and proactive disease prevention activity.

He said a recent study conducted by the Higher Education Department found that hygiene and sanitation practices among students were not satisfactory and there was scope for improvement.

“Therefore, there is an urgent need for enhancement of knowledge of college students and faculty members can play a vital role,” he added.

According to the official, during the first phase, high-density polyethylene dustbins of various capacities -- in the 10, 25 and 50 litre categories -- will be installed on college campus from December this year. “In addition, training sessions, involving experts on personal hygiene, will also be organised for students periodically,” the official said.

In the second phase, the authorities would take steps to increase the number of toilets and ensure better sanitation facilities. “The existing woes including erratic water supply and poor maintenance of toilets in colleges will be solved,” the official said.

“Health professionals will also be involved in the sanitation programme. They will speak to students about the implications of using poorly maintained toilets in their colleges,” he said.