Outreach programme on the Importance of Education and Hygiene

The Department of PG Studies and Research in Social Work, St. Philomena’s College (Autonomous), Mysuru, in collaboration with the Organisation of Development for People (ODP), Mysuru, organized an outreach programme on the Importance of Education and Hygiene on 19th November 2025 (Wednesday) at the Government Higher Primary School, Giriya Bhovi Palya, Mysuru. The programme was conducted with the objective of creating awareness among school children about personal hygiene practices and motivating them towards education and future academic planning.

The programme was presided over by Mr. Nagabhusan, the Head Master of the school. The guests for the programme included Mrs. Shanta, staff member of the Organisation of Development for People (ODP), Mysuru, and Ms. Tanuja, a school teacher. The outreach programme was facilitated by first-year MSW students Mr. Shankara, Ms. Chaithra, and Ms. Sabiya, who served as the resource persons for the sessions. A total of 75 students actively participated in the programme.

During the programme, the students were educated on various aspects of personal hygiene. Emphasis was laid on the importance of handwashing with soap and water, especially after using the toilet, before eating, after coughing or sneezing, and after playing outside, as it helps in removing germs and preventing sickness. The importance of daily bathing was also explained, highlighting how regular bathing helps maintain personal hygiene by removing dirt, sweat, and germs from the body.

The session also focused on dental care, where students were informed about brushing their teeth twice a day, using a soft toothbrush with appropriate toothpaste, brushing all sides of the teeth for at least two minutes, replacing the toothbrush every three months, rinsing the mouth after meals, and consuming healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables. Nail care was another important topic discussed, stressing the need to keep nails short and clean, avoid nail biting, and clean nails after playing to prevent infections. Additionally, students were guided on clothing hygiene, emphasizing the importance of wearing clean clothes daily and keeping their school uniform neat and tidy.

Apart from hygiene education, the programme also included a session on the importance of education. The students were given basic information about higher education, the future road map after primary and high school education, and simple tips on how to face examinations confidently. This session aimed to motivate students to pursue education seriously and plan for their future.

To ensure active participation and make the programme engaging, several interactive activities were conducted, including Rain Clap Rhythm, Letter Pick and Perform, Human Chain Movement, and Group Formation Games. These activities helped the students understand the concepts better while encouraging teamwork and enthusiasm.

Overall, the outreach programme was successfully conducted and well received by the students and school authorities. The collaborative effort between the PG Studies and Research in Social Work, St. Philomena’s College and ODP contributed significantly to the effectiveness of the programme in enhancing students’ awareness of personal hygiene and the importance of education.

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