Schools run by DSGMC to use social robot for better hygiene practices among students

Social robot 'Pepe' will nudge children studying in schools run by the Delhi Sikh Gurudwara Management Committee to adopt better hygiene practices.

'Pepe'developed by researchers from the University of Glasgow in collaboration with the Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University in Indiawill be used inDSGMC schoolsto givea fresh approach to hygiene, said Manjinder Singh Sirsa, president of the Committee.

"Pepe robots each costing around Rs 7000 will be mounted onthe wall above hand washing stationsnear wash rooms to inspire nearly 20,000 children studying in coeducation institutionstowash their hands properly," he said.

Thespeakingrobot will interact with children as they will pass by the sink and encourage them to practise proper handwashing, Sirsa said.

The 12 branches of Guru Harkishan Public School, run by the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee willinstallproper hand washing machinestopromote hygiene practices among children, he said.

"DSGMC willinstall hand washing stations that are appropriate for the school and place them inareas where they will best serve the students."