Revolutionizing School WASH SBC: Addis Ababa Workshop Unveils Transformative Strategies for National WASH Behavioral Change
Addis Ababa, November 24, 2023: In a groundbreaking move, the PMC-E/UNICEF collaboration recently spearheaded a two-day Regional Familiarization Workshop in Addis Ababa, dedicated to propelling the National School WASH Social Behavioral Change (SBC) Guide. This event, held from November 23 to 24, stands as a significant milestone in advancing water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices in Ethiopian schools.
Recognizing the imperative need for enhanced WASH conditions in schools, the collaborative effort between PMC-E and UNICEF aims to actively drive social and behavioral change within school settings. This initiative aligns seamlessly with broader national and global endeavors to uplift the well-being of students through comprehensive WASH behavior change.
The workshop served as a dynamic platform for fostering engaging discussions, encouraging thoughtful reflections, and strategically developing action plans tailored for regional implementation. Divided into three groups, participants qpassionately delved into the challenges and opportunities surrounding School WASH SBC in their area.
A pivotal moment during the workshop featured a comprehensive presentation on School WASH behaviors, shedding light on key aspects of behavioral change strategies. The session emphasized the significance of effectively planning and implementing Social Behavioral Change (SBC) techniques.
The agenda also encompassed in-depth discussions on SBC monitoring and evaluation, focusing on understanding roles and responsibilities in implementing the National School WASH Social Behavioral Change Guide. This holistic approach ensures that the transformative strategies outlined in the guide are actively put into practice.
Notably, participants from various institutions, including the Tigray Water and Energy Bureau, Oromia Region Health and Education Bureaus, Zone, Woreda, Central Ethiopia Region Health and Education Bureaus, and Southern Ethiopia Region Health and Education Bureau, collaborated to share insights, fostering a healthier and more conducive learning environment.
The workshop culminated in a thorough review of the National School WASH Social Behavioral Change Guide document, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the guide’s principles and strategies.
The momentum generated by this event is expected to propel the effective implementation of the National School WASH Social Behavioral Change Guide across regions, ultimately creating a positive impact on the well-being of students throughout Ethiopia.
