Girls Build Sanitation Robot to Solve Hostel Hygiene Issues

Rupa, Priya Darshini, and Sreeja – students from Andhra Pradesh Social Welfare Residential School, Veapada – saw a problem in their hostel: poor sanitation conditions affecting 600 students. They decided to take action. 

Through the ShePreneur Program, the trio got access to tools, mentorship, and hands-on learning in STEM. They used this opportunity to design a humanoid robot to automate toilet cleaning, reducing the burden on sanitation workers and improving hygiene in shared washrooms. 

Their idea was based on direct feedback from sanitation staff, who had to clean the toilets 3–4 times daily and were often exposed to infections. This affected their health and productivity. The students wanted a solution that was safe, effective, and reduced manual work. Despite challenges during the pandemic, the team collaborated virtually. They used TinkerCAD for designing and Arduino boards for building the prototype. They went through rounds of prototyping and testing, learning how to build a product based on user needs. With support from their school principal, teachers, and mentors, they also learned how to pitch their idea and explore entrepreneurship. 

Their project received recognition on National Girl Child Day 2020, when they were felicitated by Nehru Yuva Kendra Sanghathan, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. This initiative is still in its early stages, but the students are determined to scale it further. They aim to bring their sanitation robot to more institutions and ensure clean, safe washrooms – especially in hostels – while reducing health risks for sanitation workers. 

This is a strong example of how girl-led innovation, supported by structured STEM programs, can lead to practical solutions and entrepreneurial journeys.