Local government agencies, schools and Plan Thailand work together to improve the quality of life of indigenous and ethnic children and families on hygiene and sanitation in north-eastern Thailand.

Hygiene and sanitation training is helping to improve the quality of life in one of Thailand's driest provinces. Standing beside the border with Cambodia, Srisaket province is home to a number of ethnic and indigenous groups. Combating the inherent shortage of water resources is the main key to health and well-being, and so hygeine is particularly important.

Fortunately, school children in Ban Khub and Ban Nam Kliang Schools now have tooth-brushing and hand-washing facilities thanks to the support of generous Japanese sponsors. The children are also being trained to improve their hygiene awareness, and to care to for their environment on issues such as garbage separation.

PHOTO: Jenny Matthews School children washing their hands

With the benefit of training, the children are producing media material, brochures and campaign items to improve understanding and awareness among family and community members. Hygiene and sanitation are now part of the school curriculum, and daily personal hygiene training is widespread.

This project relied on support from local government budget to improve community water systems. Thanks to local government officials, the people of Nam Kliang Sub District and the Plan Japan National Organisation, children in the children of Ban Khub and Ban Nam Kliang Schools are now living in a healthier world.