In the remote tribal village of Badasiguru under Karubai Gram Panchayat in Rayagada district, Odisha, the Government Primary School was once a place of concern for both parents and students. The school building had a damaged roof that leaked during the rainy season and the cracked flooring made it unsafe for children to move around. Basic Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities were not in proper condition. Toilets were non-functional, there was no proper water supply and handwashing facilities were absent. The kitchen used for preparing midday meals was also in poor condition. These challenges created an unhygienic environment and often discouraged regular attendance, affecting both the health and learning experience of students.
Everything changed when Prayatn Sanstha implemented the SBI Gram Seva Project in collaboration with SBI Foundation. Badasiguru Government Primary School was one of five centres renovated under the intervention. The project focused on improving essential village infrastructure, including educational facilities, to strengthen the overall wellbeing of communities in remote villages through targeted support.
Key village-level institutions like the Gram Seva Committee (GSC), Farmers’ Interest Groups (FIGs) and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) were formed and strengthened to ensure that development work addressed the real needs of the village. These groups created a platform for villagers to collectively identify challenges, prioritize interventions and plan activities. During one of the GSC meetings, members raised concerns about the poor condition of the primary school building and the difficulties children were facing due to unsafe and unhygienic facilities. This discussion guided the focus of the restoration work.
The renovation transformed the school into a safe, clean and welcoming place for children. The roof was repaired and strengthened, damaged flooring was replaced with tiles and toilet facilities were renovated with running water connectivity. Handwashing stations were constructed to promote hygiene and kitchen facilities were repaired to ensure safe preparation of midday meals. The school building was also freshly painted, creating a more pleasant and comfortable learning environment for children.
The transformation has significantly improved the learning environment for students. Structural repairs eliminated safety risks and improved WASH facilities enhanced hygiene and health conditions. Parents now feel more confident sending their children to school and attendance has improved as children return to the classroom with enthusiasm.
The Badasiguru Government Primary School is now more than just a building. It has become a safe and inspiring space where children can learn, play and build a brighter future for themselves and their community.
