| Project Scope | Working in partnership with Block Development Office and Shishu Shikhsha Kendra, facilitate supplementary coaching primary school students |
| Beneficiaries | About 30 students of Adibasipara Thakurtala SSK |
| Project Status | Ongoing, since September 2022 |
| Project Size | Medium |
The project, which is currently functional at Thakurtala Adibasipara Shishu Shiksha Kendra (SSK) in Haringhata block, was conceptualized based on discussion with the block development officer, Dr Anirban Majumder. The objective is to supplement the education provided by the SSKs by engaging the primary school students for a few additional hours in the evening where a teacher employed by the foundation coaches the students on key subjects such as English and Mathematics. This not only helps the students get a firm grip on the subjects but also instills confidence in the mind of the families so that the possibility of dropping out after the primary school is minimized.
After several rounds of discussion with the BDO office, a working model was put in place. Foundation members made several visits, spoke to the Sahayika’s and senior teachers of the schools, and interviewed the candidates willing to play the extremely important role of the teacher. In parallel, the budget was also worked out, and our members gave us enough confidence to take a plunge. Finally, the project was first launched in Mollabelia SSK, and was inaugurated on the 19th of September, 2022. Dr Majumder and many of the local dignitaries were present. The school started operating immediately.
Going by the extremely positive response from the people, we quickly decided to launch Uttoron in one more school – the Thakurtala Adipasipara SSK. The same model was followed – we discussed with the senior teachers, interviewed potential candidate, made budgetary provisions, and finally, the project was launched on 15th October 2022.
Under Uttoron, the foundation plays the following roles:
- Employ teacher for each project having the necessary skills, temperament and commitment,
- Frame the content of the course and method of delivery. For this, we take inputs from educationists and ensure the same is accepted by the teachers,
- Provide the students with necessary paraphernalia such as bag, pencil, note book etc.
- Stay engaged with the school administration to ensure smooth functioning and overall compliance with the proposed model.
We wish to closely monitor the process being made on ground over next 6 months, and accordingly take next steps.
Post Script: April 2025The Mollabelia project began with promise but faced operational challenges and was closed around mid-2023.
In contrast, the Adibasipara project has been running successfully and is now in its fourth year. A new initiative, Galpo-gachha, was launched in 2023. Several students have participated in competitive examinations, and cultural programs are held regularly. Fun events, including community lunches, are also organized from time to time.
Overall, the Uttoron model has been effectively implemented in this project and continues to be one of our major success stories.