A one-day refresher training programme for junior and youth Red Cross Counsellors, in connection with the preparatory initiative of the observance of Global Hand Washing Day-2013, was organised by the Indian Red Cross Society here.
Junior Red Cross and Youth Red Cross Counsellors from different Schools and Colleges of Odisha participated in the programme. Indian Red Cross Society honorary secretary Dr Mangala Prasad Mohanty presided over function. Mohanty extended a warm welcome to the Junior Red Cross and Youth Red Cross Counsellors who with their sincere effort made the observation of global hand washing a success in the State. He said that Global Hand Washing Day was observed in 98 per cent of schools in Odisha emphasizing the crucial role of Red Cross Counsellors and teachers in bringing out desirable changes in the behaviour and habit of the students as they consider their teachers as role models. He requested the participants to spread the message of safe hand washing in the schools, colleges and among the community.
Inaugurator and chief guest of the function Dr Ashwani Kumar, who is Director, Directorate of Water Management, stressed that water is the most scarce and invaluable resource. For health, hygiene and sanitation, safe water plays a crucial role. Hence, prevention of water and its effective use is essential for all of us. He appreciated the initiative of Indian Red Cross Society-Odisha branch in inviting teachers from schools and colleges and sensitizing them on the hygiene practice.
Water and Sanitation Mission consultant Sikha Nayak made a power point presentation on sanitation and hygiene and emphasized that a simple practice of proper hand wash with soap can prevent the occurrence of many diseases like diarrhoea, respiratory and intestinal worm infections. Youth Red Cross Officer Dr Sarita Supkar coordinated the entire training programme.