JICA India celebrates Global Handwashing Day with an event to strongly emphasize the importance of proper handwashing.

New Delhi, October 13, 2023: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) India, in a spirited celebration of Global Handwashing Day, continued its mission to promote hygiene and cleanliness in Delhi as part of its “Achhi Aadat (Good Habit)” campaign. Building on the success of last year's initiatives, an event was held at the EDMC Pratibha Vidyalaya in Trilokpuri, Block – 22, focused on students from 2nd and 3rd standard. The aim was to educate them on the importance of proper handwashing, which demonstrates JICA’s commitment to improving public health through handwashing awareness. The event was organized in collaboration with Hakuhodo. Sync Pvt Ltd.

The highlight of the event was a 20 to 30-second dance performance to the tune of "Hello Kitty IEC material." Students were encouraged to follow this engaging routine, ensuring that they wash their hands effectively. Moderators demonstrated the correct handwashing technique, and teachers were encouraged to participate actively. The activities included a "Jumbled Handwashing Steps" game, where students had to arrange the steps correctly in 30 seconds. Those who answered the first 10 answers correctly, received gifts that emphasise the importance of handwashing.

Additionally, JICA India introduced the "Achhi Aadat Pledge Tree" activity, encouraging students to make pledges to promote hygiene and health. These pledges were displayed on trees, serving as a constant reminder for students to uphold their commitment to a healthy and hygienic lifestyle. To further reinforce the message of daily hygiene, a moderator shared seven essential tips with the students, such as bathing daily, using soap, and brushing teeth, ensuring that young minds were well-informed about maintaining good health.

Mr. SAITO Mitsunori, Chief Representative of JICA India, expressed his appreciation on this occasion, stating, “Global Handwashing Day serves as a vital reminder of the fundamental role handwashing plays in maintaining public health. This year's event built upon the achievements of previous initiatives, reaffirms JICA India's commitment to improving public health through handwashing education, underscores our commitment to the promotion of hygiene and cleanliness, especially among young students. Our 'Achhi Aadat' campaign continues to make a tangible impact on society by educating children on the importance of proper handwashing. Engaging students, the 'Achhi Aadat Pledge Tree' activity, and the distribution of hygiene kits all contribute to fostering good hygiene practices. We remain steadfast in our dedication to improving public health through handwashing education, striving for a healthier and cleaner future.”
Keeping with the yearly tradition, JICA India distributed hygiene kits to participants. These kits included hand sanitizers, liquid sanitizers, tissue papers, and small soaps, promoting practical hygiene practices among the students. As the world recognizes the significance of hand hygiene, JICA India continues to play a vital role in creating awareness and fostering good hygiene practices among young minds.

About Achhi Aadat Campaign
JICA India has launched a campaign, "Achhi Aadat (Good Habit)" to raise awareness among 10 crore people about the importance of hygiene practices for preventing the spread of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases, in collaboration with NGOs, government authorities and Japanese companies. The campaign's objective is to introduce a simple and practical approach to hygiene and sanitation related issues by promoting handwashing, nail cleaning and other hygiene practices such as wearing mask in a correct way.

About JICA
Established by law, as an incorporated administrative institution under the Government of Japan, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) aims to contribute to the promotion of international cooperation, as the sole Japanese governmental agency in charge of ODA implementation. JICA is the world's largest bilateral donor agency and works as a bridge between Japan and emerging countries, providing assistance in the form of loans, grants, and technical cooperation, to enable the emerging countries to strengthen their capabilities.

JICA India Office Web: https://www.jica.go.jp/india/english/index.html
JICA India Brochure:   
https://www.jica.go.jp/Resource/india/english/office/others/c8h0vm00004cesxi-att/brochure_27.pdf
JICA Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/jicaindiapr/   
Let’s Wash Our Hands with HELLO KITTY!! (English Version): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6mrZHiwWUg

For further information, please contact: