Express Impact: IIM Ranchi Steps in to Help Kids Get Primary Education in Neglected Village
In a significant move to uplift the educational prospects of children in a neglected village, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ranchi has taken the initiative to provide primary education to the young residents of Budikai village in Jharkhand’s Khunti district. This intervention comes after a report published by The New Indian Express highlighted the dire situation faced by the children in this remote area.
The Situation in Budikai Village
Budikai village is home to approximately 35 families, who have long been deprived of basic educational facilities. The lack of a school in the village has left many children without access to education. Currently, only 5 to 6 students can afford to travel several kilometers to attend a school located outside the village, leaving around 25 to 30 children without any form of schooling.
Response from IIM Ranchi
Following the publication of the report titled “No roads, no schools: Modern facilities merely a dream in Jharkhand’s Budikai village” on December 24, IIM Ranchi decided to take action. A team from the institute, led by Assistant Professor Gaurav Marathe, conducted a field visit to assess the situation firsthand. The team recognized the urgent need for educational support and has committed to providing financial assistance to establish a makeshift school in the village.
Plans for a Makeshift School
As a temporary solution, IIM Ranchi will utilize funds raised through the ‘Joy of Giving’ program, which is an initiative by the students of the institute. These funds will be directed towards constructing a makeshift shed where children can receive primary education. Assistant Professor Marathe emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Thanks to The New Indian Express for highlighting the issue, the IIM-Ranchi management decided to help the village from this sorry state.”
Local Involvement and Teaching Arrangements
To facilitate the educational process, the most educated individual in Budikai, Bogan Hans, who holds a non-matriculation qualification, will be appointed as the teacher. He will receive a fixed monthly salary from IIM Ranchi for his services. During a recent meeting between the IIM team and village representatives, it was agreed that a committee would be formed to oversee the project, and a bank account would be established for the transfer of funds from IIM Ranchi.
Funding and Construction
The entire cost of constructing the makeshift school and covering operational expenses will be funded through donations from IIM Ranchi students and various other fundraising efforts. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the children of Budikai receive the education they deserve.
Future Plans and Ongoing Support
A team of 25 to 30 students from IIM Ranchi is scheduled to revisit Budikai village on January 12. Their goal is to conduct a thorough assessment of the village’s challenges and work towards finding sustainable solutions. This ongoing engagement highlights IIM Ranchi’s commitment to not only providing immediate educational support but also addressing the broader issues faced by the community.
The Broader Context
Despite being independent for 78 years, Budikai village has not seen significant development in essential facilities. The village lacks basic infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and safe drinking water. The only access route to the village is a rough path carved out by the residents themselves, further isolating them from essential services.
The absence of educational facilities is particularly alarming, as not a single resident of Budikai has passed the Class 10 examinations. Villagers have expressed their concerns, noting that a primary school once existed in the village but was merged with another school due to low attendance. This merger has left the village without any educational opportunities.
Conclusion
The initiative taken by IIM Ranchi to support the children of Budikai village is a commendable step towards addressing the educational disparities faced by rural communities in India. By establishing a makeshift school and involving local residents in the teaching process, IIM Ranchi is not only providing immediate relief but also fostering a sense of community ownership over education.
Note: The efforts of IIM Ranchi serve as a reminder of the importance of education in transforming lives and communities, and the need for continued support to ensure that every child has access to quality education.
