ANWESHA-Welfare Initiatives by Minorities and Backward Classes Welfare Department, Government of Odisha
ANWESHA is an attempt to bridge the education divide between minorities in rural and urban Odisha.
Problem
- The limited access to quality education of indigenous communities
- The financial burden on students and their families of education and living standards
- Inequality in educational opportunities for the marginalized communities
- Lack of employment opportunity
Solution
- ANWESHA scheme enabled ST/SC students’ enrolment in renowned private English-medium schools in urban areas
- Complete coverage of educational costs, including tuition fees, uniforms, books, accommodation, transportation, and post-school tutoring
- Establishment of Urban Education Complexes, offering free accommodation, food, and full-time support staff in hostels
Outcomes
- Over 21,000 ST/SC students across 17 districts have benefited from the ANWESHA programme
- Students are now exposed to competitive and excellent educational environments, positively impacting their academic growth
- ANWESHA has significantly reduced educational disparities, providing ST/SC students with equal opportunities in top urban schools
- Access to higher education has empowered ST/SC students
- Improved job opportunities having the potential to break the cycle of poverty
Project Details
Category: Social welfare and minority welfare initiatives
Project: ANWESHA
Organisation: ST and SC Development, Minorities and Backward Classes Welfare Department, Odisha
Start Date: 21-Feb-2015
Problem
ST/SC students from rural areas in Odisha faced significant challenges in accessing quality education, primarily due to financial constraints and limited educational opportunities. This inequality created an educational divide between them and their urban counterparts. The financial burden associated with tuition fees, uniforms, books, and living standards often deterred these students and their families from pursuing better educational avenues.
Solution
The ANWESHA scheme, spearheaded by the Odisha state government, took a pivotal step to address the educational disparities faced by ST/SC students from rural backgrounds. By partnering with esteemed private English-medium schools located in urban areas and district headquarters, ANWESHA opened doors to superior educational resources and infrastructure for these students. The scheme is comprehensive, alleviating financial pressures on students and their families by covering the entire spectrum of educational costs. This initiative extends beyond mere academic provisions by also ensuring a conducive living environment through the establishment of Urban Education Complexes. These complexes, equipped with essential amenities, foster a nurturing and supportive atmosphere for the holistic development of the students.
Outcomes
The ANWESHA scheme has made a discernible impact on the educational landscape of Odisha. Having reached over 21,000 students across 17 districts, its expansive coverage is a testament to its effectiveness in bridging the educational gap. As these students immerse themselves in reputed urban schools, they encounter competitive and exceptional learning environments that spur their academic growth and prowess. This newfound exposure has not only elevated their academic performance but has also instilled in them a renewed sense of confidence and ambition. The scheme’s success in levelling the playing field has consequently empowered these students to dream bigger, eyeing higher education avenues and lucrative job opportunities. In the broader perspective, ANWESHA’s transformative impact holds the promise of breaking entrenched cycles of poverty within these communities.