The Saajhi Shiksha Program, implemented by Arpan Seva Sansthan in partnership with Save the Children and with the support of Larsen & Toubro (L&T), was carried out in Kukda and Lasadiya Gram Panchayats of Bhim Block, Rajsamand District, Rajasthan. The primary objective of the project was to ensure quality education and reduce the dropout percentage among children in the target area. The project made a positive impact on the lives of thousands of children, especially during the challenging period of the COVID-19 lockdown when schools were closed, and online classes were not feasible for the children in the project area.
The project aimed at conducting co-educational activities to build the personality and confidence of children.
Efforts were made to mobilize the community to ensure the continuity of children's education.
The project focused on building the capacity of School Management Committees (SMC) and parents to strengthen their role in promoting education.
Teachers were provided with capacity-building workshops and on-site support to improve classroom processes and teaching methodologies.
The project worked on ensuring the availability and ease of using teaching materials.
Efforts were made to develop physical facilities in schools as per the required standards.
The Saajhi Shiksha Program had several positive impacts on the children, teachers, Anganwadi workers, and the community:
Children gained self-confidence and became more comfortable asking questions from teachers.
The project contributed to a zero dropout rate among children till primary education in the project area.
39 young girls and women who had previously dropped out of school were enrolled back into classes.
The project established a unique model of Learning Resource Centers at the village level, ensuring continued education during the school closures due to the COVID-19 lockdown.
Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 period, the knowledge level of children in language and mathematics increased in the project area.
Parents became more attentive towards their children's education, actively participating in SMC meetings, and being aware of their roles as SMC members.
Through these efforts, the Saajhi Shiksha Project made a significant impact on the education and overall development of children in the Bhim Block of Rajsamand District, Rajasthan.