The UNICEF Hyderabad Field Office (HFO), covering Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana, led by Dr. Zelalem Taffesse, Chief of Field Office, met with Dr. Veerendra Heggade at Dharmasthala to discuss critical child-focused issues in Karnataka, particularly in the northern regions. Key topics included Early Childhood Development, addressing Malnutrition, tackling child marriage, and promoting hygiene practices.

Dr. Taffesse emphasized the importance of social and Behavioural Change Communication (SBCC), with a particular focus on enhancing parental roles in ensuring better outcomes for children. The Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project (SKDRDP) expressed its commitment to this agenda, agreeing to scale up efforts across the state.

This collaboration builds on the successful collaboration between SKDRDP and UNICEF on the Save Water initiative, which engaged youth in water conservation efforts across 14 drought-prone districts of Karnataka. SKDRDP is now planning to expand its reach statewide.

The meeting was attended by Mr. Anil Kumar S.S., CEO of SKDRDP; Mr. Shantharam Pai, CFO of SKDRDP; Mr. Venkatesh Aralikatty, WASH Specialist, UNICEF HFO; Dr. Matpady Prabhath Kalkura, WASH and CCES Expert, UNICEF HFO; Mr. Vasanth; Mr. Jagadeesh; and Mr. Nikilesh from SKDRDP.

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to addressing pressing social issues and fostering a brighter future for children in Karnataka.