Who we are
The Sulabh International School for Action Sociology and Sociology of Sanitation (SISASSS) was established in 1992, inspired by the visionary leadership and lifetime dedication of Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, the founder of Sulabh International Social Service Organization. Dr. Pathak groundbreaking work in the field of sanitation and social equity, which uplifted millions of disadvantaged individuals, serves as the guiding force behind SISASSS’s mission to bridge sociology with practical solutions for
societal transformation.
SISASSS embodies Dr. Pathak’s belief in integrating academic knowledge with grassroots action. Rooted in the insights gained during the Sulabh Sanitation Movement of the 1970s and 1980s, the institution addresses critical intersections of sanitation, human rights, gender, and poverty. It has also pioneered the introduction of sanitation as an academic discipline in higher education across India, reflecting its innovative approach to driving systemic change.
One of SISASSS’s landmark initiatives, the Sulabh Public School, was established to provide free English-medium education to the children of sanitation workers, empowering marginalized communities and breaking cycles of poverty. This initiative continues to flourish with the support of partners like Boeing, especially during and after the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Guided by the legacy of Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, SISASSS remains committed to turning knowledge into action, fostering equity, and shaping a cleaner, fairer, and more inclusive future.
Vision
To create inclusive environment for communities that foster growth, resilience, and self-reliance, enhancing quality of life and human dignity
Mission
To transform lives and communities, our programs champion women's economic empowerment through sustainable farming, skills development, and market linkages in rural areas. SISASSS is dedicated to tackling critical issues like food security, human rights, gender equality, and environmental sustainability.
Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak
Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, the founder of Sulabh International Social Service Organization,
is widely recognized in India – and around the world – for dedicating his life to building a nationwide sanitation
movement that transcended borders, spanning over five decades. His lifetime work has made a critical difference
to the lives of millions of severely disadvantaged and impoverished individuals, lacking access to basic amenities.
Our Values
We emphasize on the importance of creativity and forward-thinking in developing solutions. Foster a culture and environment that encourages new ideas and continuous improvement.
Innovation
Sustainability
Ensuring long-term planet health, economic viability, and social equity through food security, health, education, gender equality, clean water, and strategic partnerships.
Inclusivity
Our programs benefit all community members, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or socio-economic status. We promote respect, equality, and shared opportunity, aligning with Sulabh’s founding values of development for all.
We recognize the value of every individual and approach our work with respect and openness. Our commitment to inclusivity ensures that all community members benefit from our programs
Humility
We strive to strengthen communities by enhancing their agency, voice and resilience. Our efforts have transformed lives, with one of our beneficiaries being honoured with the Padma Bhushan, highlighting the profound impact of our work.
Empowerment
Our Alignment With SDG GOALS
Our initiatives are closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
SDG 2
(Zero Hunger)
Through food security and
livelihood programs
SDG 3
(Good Health and
Well-being)
Through food security and
livelihood programs
SDG 4
(Quality Education)
Realized through the Sulabh Public School and Vocational Training Centre
SDG 5
(Gender Equality)
Supported by programs for widows in Vrindavan and Varanasi
SDG 6
(Clean Water and Sanitation)
A central focus of our efforts
SDG 17
(Partnerships for
the Goals)
Emphasizing collaborations with the Government of India and private sector entities such as Boeing