Santhoshini is a IVth standard student studying at RCM Primary School in Karayanchavadi, Tiruvallur District, India. She lives with her parents. Her father, Manikandan, is a daily wage laborer and her mother, Macrina, is a housewife. Many of her classmates live nearby.
In the area Santhoshini lives, open defecation is very common. Before encountering the Hygiene with Chhota Bheem curriculum, going to the fields to defecate was a normal part of the daily routine for Santhoshini, her family, and some members of her community.
In March 2018, Santhoshini's school became part of the four-week pilot study for Hygiene with Chhota Bheem. Since the curriculum was about the importance of toilet use and handwashing with soap, the teacher started class by asking the students if they had a toilet at home.
The teacher remembers that Santhoshini was hesitant to raise her hand and reveal to everyone that she defecates in the open. She didn't realize this could affect their health, and how germs spread and cause diseases — she was just obeying her parents.
That day, after she went home, Santhoshini requested that her mother construct a toilet for her. The next day, her mother visited the school and met the teacher. The teacher stressed the importance of toilet use, and also cautioned her about the dangers of open defecation.
This conversation made her parents rethink the importance of having a toilet at home. The teacher told Santhoshini to be persistent and follow up with her parents. Gradually, as they saved money, they began construction. In early June of 2018, Santhoshini's toilet was finished.
Before it was complete, Santhoshini would miss days of school due to stomach aches and other health related issues. Since June, she hasn't missed a single day of school. Her attendance record is perfect!
Santhoshini takes pride in her accomplishment, and her knowledge about the importance of hygiene and sanitation has changed the lives of her family. We're so proud of her, and can't wait to see what else she accomplishes when she puts her mind to it.
