Karachi:January 17:In a run-down, dirt-ridden alley of Sultanabad, a government school bustled with a platoon of sixth grade boys, armed with mops, brooms and buckets. ‘Operation Clean-up’ was their mission, and they had three hours to rid the campus of its dust and germs.

The activity was part of a two-day health awareness programme, Project Dost, held at the MAO Government Boys School by KUMAK, a youth organisation comprising students from Karachi University. They work in collaboration with the Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs of the US State Department.

On the first day of the programme, the children were shown animations which touched upon issues of physical hygiene, mental and social health and environmental cleanliness.

“We appreciate such activities as they provide the students with new ways to learn,” said Rashid Gul, the school’s principal. “Not many opportunities are available to these children, so even the smallest contribution makes a difference,” he added.

Ahsan Raza Firdousi, a KU graduate and co-founder of KUMAK Pakistan, was the main speaker at the programme. “Boys are always difficult to handle, but theirs is definitely a smart lot.

The video clips were by far the most appealing part for the children. At the end of the day, when kids were enthusiastically shaking hands with us and asking when we will visit again, an emotional bond was formed with them.”

At the end of the session, the students told us how informative the experience was. “I learnt Gutka and betel nut is harmful for health,” said little Rashid.The news.