New Delhi: Pratham Education Foundation (Youth Skilling – Waterworks Management & Sanitation Program) has been honored with the FICCI National Award 2025 in Category 7: Best Skilling Initiative in WASH, at the ISC-FICCI Sanitation National Awards held in New Delhi on 23rd–24th September 2025.
This recognition underscores Pratham’s commitment to empowering communities through its flagship plumbing: Waterworks Management & Sanitation Program—a pioneering initiative addressing India’s Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) challenges.
The award was conferred by a distinguished jury chaired by Padma Bhushan Dr. Raghunath A. Mashelkar and presented at the India Sanitation Conclave 2025, New Delhi, in the presence of Mr. Ashok K. K. Meena (Secretary, Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti), Ms. Naina Lal Kidwai (Chairperson, India Sanitation Coalition), Ms. Jyoti Vij (Director General, FICCI), and representatives of the GMR Varalakshmi Foundation. Along with this honor, Pratham received a cash prize of ₹2.5 lakhs.
Launched in 2017, the program has trained thousands of youth across Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Jharkhand, equipping them with practical skills in plumbing, waterworks maintenance, and sanitation system management. By combining center-based training with community-level training camps, the initiative ensures accessibility for youth from underserved and remote regions.
Key Impacts of the Program:
- Enhanced access to safe water and sanitation in vulnerable communities.
- Created dignified livelihood opportunities, with many graduates now working in municipal projects, private sector jobs, and self-employment ventures.
- Promoted gender inclusion by encouraging and training women in plumbing and sanitation roles.
- Embedded sustainability and innovation, integrating eco-friendly practices, water conservation methods, and community-driven maintenance models.
“This award is a recognition of the resilience and hard work of our trainees, trainers, and community partners. At Waterworks Management & Sanitation Program, we believe skilling is not just about employment, but about dignity, empowerment, and sustainable community development. We are proud to contribute to India’s vision of inclusive growth through WASH.” said Shivaji N. Kadam, Program Head – Waterworks Management & Sanitation Program, Pratham Education Foundation.
The FICCI award jury recognized Pratham’s initiative for its affordability, scalability, inclusivity, and sustainable impact, aligning with national sanitation goals and the ASSURED framework.
With over 1,700 youth trained in 2024–25 alone and an average placement rate above 85%, the program stands as a model for integrating skill development with public health, social equity, and environmental sustainability.
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