Arka Sinha Roy’s educational background is from Rabindra Bharati University, Kolkata. With a focus on political science during undergraduate studies at the University of Calcutta, their interest evolved from literature to the real-world debates on social and political realities. This transformation was marked by a deep dive into political science, breaking down personal barriers constructed due to societal discrimination and violence, leading to a newfound appreciation for human courage and resilience.
The journey continued with a postgraduate degree in human rights and human development. In the interim between undergraduate and postgraduate studies, they engaged with grassroots organisations, particularly working with slum children, where the concept of ‘rights’ became a significant influence.
Professional experiences unfolded in diverse settings. Starting with CARE India in the MDR TB counselling program, they played a crucial role in research, documentation, and the development of an early warning system for disease mapping. A move to Gram Vikas in Odisha brought about a change in scenery, focusing on water and sanitation in Simlipal forest area villages, including immersion in the lives of rural communities.
Subsequent roles with DFID-TMST, UNICEF, and Aga Khan Foundation expanded their impact across health, nutrition, and WASH sectors. Particularly noteworthy was their involvement in scaling up the Open Defecation Free movement in Rayagada, Odisha, where innovative campaigns such as ‘Light the Latrine’ and ‘Swachh Durga Puja Competition’ were initiated.
From 2018, their focus shifted to Odisha, where they served as a state consultant for UNICEF, concentrating on ODF Sustainability, ODF+, and solid and liquid waste management. This commitment extended to the Aga Khan Foundation in Bihar, where they worked as a Technical Officer on the Urban Governance and Solid Waste Management Programme.
They have been with IIHS in Chennai since July 2022. Here, they contribute to BMGF- and World Bank-funded programmes, aligning technical innovations with social inclusion, particularly focusing on the wellbeing of sanitation workers in Tamil Nadu. The overarching goal remains the support of urban sanitation initiatives by enhancing the overall welfare of sanitation workers through coordinated interventions in social welfare, livelihoods, and occupational safety and health. This extensive and varied journey exemplifies their commitment to making meaningful contributions in the realm of public health communication and human development.
