Viman Nagar, 2nd October 2024: In an effort to raise awareness about health and hygiene among women laborers working in hazardous environments, a Health and Hygiene Workshop was organized by Ismaili CIVIC in collaboration with the Aga Khan Health Board for Pune, Robinhood Army, and Lunkad Developers. The event took place at the Labour Camp in Sakore Nagar, aimed at empowering a vulnerable group of women workers with crucial knowledge on maintaining their health and well-being.
The workshop addressed the unique challenges faced by the 45 women attendees, which included young girls aged 8 to 20 years. These women are often exposed to harmful chemicals and gases in their daily work. Key topics covered during the workshop included preventive measures for respiratory ailments, sanitation and hygiene practices, proper disposal of waste, household cleanliness, and the importance of clean drinking water and food.
Speaking at the event, the president of the Ismaili Council for Pune highlighted the importance of such initiatives: “It is heartening to see the enthusiasm of all volunteers and the teamwork from our organizing partners to benefit this vulnerable and underserved group. The nature of their work is hazardous, and these women seldom get opportunities to invest in healthcare or learn about basic hygiene. When we come together for initiatives like this, the potential to impact more lives is greatly magnified.”
The workshop also featured a medical screening conducted by qualified doctors, which included general health check-ups, blood pressure monitoring, and CBC tests to detect conditions like anemia. This gave the women access to critical health assessments that they may not have otherwise received.
Ismaili CIVIC, a global initiative of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community, seeks to improve the quality of life for people regardless of faith, gender, or background. One of its key service areas is community health, and through events like this, the organization aims to strengthen community bonds and foster collaboration in addressing pressing social and health challenges.
The workshop not only provided essential knowledge but also marked a significant step in enhancing the health and safety of women laborers in Pune’s construction sector.
