Community Empowerment

Wok-Sikip BAC, identified as a model block for developmental initiatives, faced significant challenges in water and sanitation management. The IEC strategy was developed to address these issues through comprehensive community and government engagement, aiming to pilot a sustainable model that could be scaled across the region.

Objectives

The project was designed to:

• Strengthen community ownership of local water and sanitation resources.

• Enhance public health through improved sanitation and water management.

• Foster sustainable environmental practices within the community.

Implementation Strategy and Outcomes

Methodological Approach

The strategy employed a participatory approach, involving:

• Community Mapping: Engaging locals in identifying key resources and issues, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.

• Educational Campaigns: Targeting schools and community groups to elevate awareness on hygiene, waste management, and water conservation.

• Government Collaboration: Coordinating with local government units to ensure support and sustainability of the initiatives.

Key Outcomes

• Improved Sanitation Facilities: Construction of new sanitation facilities in schools and community centers, equipped with sustainable water systems.

• Community Empowerment: High levels of engagement from local stakeholders, leading to continued advocacy and maintenance of the new systems.

• Behavioral Change: Significant shifts in community practices regarding waste management and water conservation, evidenced by enhanced public health metrics.

Table 1: Summary of Community Engagement and Impact