The Amritsar area is inhabited by the tribal Dalit people who have long suffered from discrimination and disadvantage. As a result of discrimination, literacy among the area is only 40 percent and motivation for any further education is also very low. Only 38 percent of children in the area attend school and the drop out rate is very high. Many people in this area are living below the poverty line which is made worse by unemployment, poor health and lack of education.

The project provides education programs for the 400 children of the village including the provision of teaching staff, uniforms and study materials. Health programs such a pre and post natal care and sanitation training and awareness will also be implemented in the community. Additionally children receive supplementary nutrition and regular health checks to improve the overall health status of the community.

2011 Updates

After an initial survey establishing the needs of the community, this project has been running since the end of 2008. Since that time, children, including those that had previously dropped out of school, have been enrolled in local primary schools and in the project’s literacy coaching centres, where they receive added educational support.

Another positive impact has been on the adult population, who have become increasingly aware of their rights. They have petioned the local government on matters of water, land and education.

In the future, added attention will be given to the question of what happens when primary school aged children finish the program and expanding opportunities for high school aged students.

Downloadable Resources:

Project Sheet