Mumbai, June 05, 2023. The Motilal Oswal Foundation is working to transform trust run government aided schools in Wada- a taluka in Palghar. These schools provide free of cost education to children but due to limited funds, most of the schools are in dilapidated condition, lacking even the basic facilities such as drinking water, sanitation, proper classrooms and science labs. Thei transformation of The New English School done by them is showcased in their short film (LINK of Video)
Palghar, according to the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), faces a disheartening reality with the highest student dropout rate among the five districts in Maharashtra. The socioeconomic status of parents often renders them unable to bear the expenses associated with education. Alarming research findings reveal that a majority of the dropouts belonged to families with an annual income below one lakh rupees. Furthermore, financial constraints have resulted in families prioritizing the education of male children over their female counterparts. Therefore, the Foundation chose to work in this particular location.
The transformation of The New English School has brought smiles on many children like Ekta who is featured in their latest film. Motilal Oswal Foundation has breathed new life into the school, with freshly coloured walls, well-ventilated classrooms, safe drinking water, and hygienic washrooms, creating a conducive learning environment. The Foundation's commitment to quality education is exemplified through the addition of a well-equipped science lab, a portable library, and an English language lab. Recognizing the pivotal role teachers play, the foundation has also refurbished their rooms and provided training in innovative teaching methods, empowering them to deliver an enhanced learning experience.
Mrs. Suneeta Agrawal, Chairperson at Motilal Oswal Foundation, emphasized the organization's core values, stating, "Education is a primary focus of the Motilal Oswal Foundation. We firmly believe that the improved facilities at schools like The New English School will motivate teachers, parents and students to prioritize regular attendance, thereby positively impacting their health and overall learning outcomes”.
The New English School is just one of many other Tribal schools in Wada that Motilal Oswal Foundation is assisting in rebuilding. In the past, they have revived B.L. Singhda Secondary school (Posheri) and Balkrishna Yadav Patil Vidyalaya (Asanas). All the schools are equipped with rainwater harvesting systems due to which the schools have water availability throughout the year, benefitting the villagers at large. At Asanas, the Foundation is working with Zilla Parishad primary schools and with the families of students through income generation initiatives.
Collaborating with local communities and stakeholders, the Foundation has also established the Govardhan Kaushal Vikas Kendra, an expansive skill-training centre spanning 70,000 square feet. This exceptional facility not only caters to the tribal youth and women of Palghar but also extends its reach to the neighbouring Thane districts.
Established in 2011, the Foundation is driven by the motto of 'Knowledge First‘and believes that education can bring prosperity and equality in the society. They aim to create an educational model wherein underprivileged children will receive quality education, opportunity and constant guidance from class 1 till they successfully reach their career paths. To achieve their vision, they have initiated projects for comprehensive development of children from marginalized communities. Their programs inculcate a strong sense of self-esteem, confidence and a thirst to learn new things in children.
Each step taken by the Foundation weaves a story of hope, resilience, and transformation, leaving an indelible impact on the lives of children, families, and communities in the heart of Maharashtra.
