Inadequate hygiene practices in schools remain a major concern in India, contributing significantly to the spread of communicable diseases among children.
Shared surfaces, close physical proximity, and a lack of proper awareness about hand hygiene often result in increased absenteeism, lower academic performance, and a weakened immune response among students.
Despite its simplicity, handwashing is often overlooked as a first-line defense against disease transmission in educational environments. This creates a significant gap in the basic health and hygiene education provided to school-aged children, especially in densely populated and underserved areas.
To address this problem, the ASSOCHAM Foundation for Corporate Social Responsibility (AFCSR), the social arm of the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India, launched the ‘Illness to Wellness’ campaign in collaboration with hygiene brand Savlon.