UNICEF, June 9: In collaboration with the Chandragupt Institute of Management Patna (CIMP), organised a workshop bringing together media professionals, mass communication students, and WASH practitioners to strengthen understanding of the critical linkages between climate change, Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), and community resilience.
The dialogue emphasised the role of informed reporting and solution-oriented storytelling in advancing climate-resilient WASH practices and policies in Bihar. Participants explored how media and academic institutions can contribute to building resilient communities, highlighting that resilience is not only about infrastructure and technology but also about empowered citizens and effective communication.
The session was attended by Monika Nielsen, Chief Field Officer, UNICEF. Key speakers present were Mr. Sudhakar Reddy, WASH Officer, UNICEF, Dr. Prashant, Associate Professor, CUSB, and Mr. Piyush Tripathi, Communication Manager, WRI, Prof. Dr. Rana Singh, Director, CIMP, and Kumod Kumar, CAO, CIMP.
The welcome note was delivered by Prof. Dr. Rana Singh, Director, CIMP. In his welcome note, he said, “On behalf of CIMP, I warmly welcome all participants to this important dialogue. Climate change poses serious challenges to WASH and resilience in Bihar, and it is vital that media professionals and students understand these linkages. Resilience is not only about infrastructure but also about informed citizens and effective communication. I am confident this workshop, in partnership with UNICEF, will inspire solution-oriented storytelling and strengthen our collective efforts toward climate-resilient communities.”
Monika Nielsen, Chief Field Officer, UNICEF, said, “Climate change is not a distant challenge; it is today's reality. It is affecting lives, livelihoods, health, and nutrition, with children and women among the most vulnerable. Addressing climate change is therefore essential for securing a healthier and more equitable future".
Sessions focused on:
Climate Change in Bihar: Emerging risks and implications for communities and essential services.
WASH in a Changing Climate: Challenges, impacts, and pathways to resilience.
Communicating Climate and WASH: The role of media and future communicators in evidence-based, solutions-oriented reporting.
The outcome of the session was to spread awareness about climate and its impacts on WASH services, enhance appreciation of media’s role in promoting climate-resilient solutions, and create a network of engaged communicators committed to advancing climate-resilient WASH narratives in Bihar.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Kumod Kumar, CAO, CIMP said, “I extend my heartfelt gratitude to UNICEF, our distinguished speakers, media professionals, and students for making this dialogue meaningful and inspiring. Today’s discussions on climate change, WASH, and resilience have underscored the importance of collaboration and communication in driving positive change. Together, we can amplify solutions, empower communities, and build a climate-resilient Bihar. Thank you all for your valuable presence and contributions.”
He distributed certificates and mementos to the participants.
By fostering dialogue between practitioners, journalists, and students, the workshop reinforced the importance of collaboration in safeguarding development gains and driving positive change through informed communication.