Transforming Bhopoli village

Through collaborative efforts involving Rotaractors, teachers, and local leaders, RAC Atlas SkillTech University, RID 3141, has successfully distributed 1,200 notebooks to more than 550 students in Bhopoli village, Palghar, Maharashtra. “We not only wanted to boost academic performance but also address the broader goal of making education more affordable and accessible for every student in the village,” says Aryan Menon, club president.

Addressing hygiene concerns at the Government Higher Secondary School, Bhopoli, the club launched the Sustainable Blaze, initiative to install a pad incinerator in the school, and improving hygiene standards for more than 200 girls. Apart from focusing on hygiene and environmental concerns associated with the disposal of sanitary pads, says Menon, “girls and women often face challenges in managing menstrual hygiene in public spaces. The presence of an incinerator in the school provides a discreet and private means of disposal, thus contributing to the dignity and comfort of female students and staff.”

Under project Dil Se Diwali, the Rotaract club brought the joy of Diwali to the underprivileged children in the village. Sweets were distributed, and it was a fun day, “sharing happiness and festive spirit to the community,” he smiles.

Girls and women often face challenges in managing menstrual hygiene in public spaces. The presence of an incinerator in the school provides a discreet and private means of disposal, thus contributing to the dignity and comfort of female students and staff.

The Urban Girl initiative by the club is championing menstrual health and hygiene awareness in the village. Menon says this programme through interactive and informative sessions is “challenging societal norms, reducing stigma through open conversations and fostering inclusivity.”

Once the club had established a strong relationship with the school management “they approached us with a request for a water cooler inside the school. So, we came up with project Aqua Station,” says Menon. He adds that “the installation of the new water cooler ensures access to fresh and clean drinking water for over 550 students.”