Development of Departmental Hostels/Ashram as Model Institutions

Development of Departmental Hostels/Ashram as Model Institutions

Problem

Infrastructure Concerns: The hostels and ashrams were plagued by insufficient infrastructure
Challenging Geography: Remote tribal areas and adverse geographical conditions posed hurdles in student access to education
Poor economic conditions acted as deterrent for the tribal communities

Solution

Infrastructure Overhaul: Comprehensive development of hostels and ashrams to modern standards
Amenities for Holistic Development: Introduced quality food, kitchen gardens, sports facilities and more
Modern Amenities: Hostels and ashrams were equipped with facilities like modern kitchens, solar power, and computer rooms
Efficient Systems: The introduction of online application systems streamlined processes and ensured transparency

Outcomes

Impressive Results: The revamped infrastructure directly correlated with students excelling in their board exams
Increased Enrolments: The number of students benefiting from the hostels and ashrams witnessed a surge across districts
Expansion Plans: A third phase targeting additional districts is in the pipeline, aiming to benefit an additional 4,650 students
Increased Budget Allocation: An allocation of Rs 2,325 lakh highlights the commitment to expanding and enhancing the initiative

Project Details

Category: Education
Project Title: Development of Departmental Hostels/Ashram as Model Institutions
Department or District: Department of Tribal and Schedule Caste, Government of Chhattisgarh
State: Chhattisgarh
Start Date of the Project: 1st April 2020
Website: https://tribal.cg.gov.in/en

Keywords: Tribal Welfare, Residential Education, Scheduled Tribes Empowerment, Model Institutions, Hostel Development, Educational Equity, Inclusive Development

The Project

To address infrastructural inadequacies and promote quality education among tribal and marginalized communities, the Tribal and Scheduled Caste Development Department of Chhattisgarh launched a project to develop departmental hostels and ashrams into Model Institutions. With 3,278 hostels supporting over 1.9 lakh students, the initiative aimed at mainstreaming students into higher education and employment through a holistic residential schooling experience.

Problems that it Intends to Solve

Dilapidated hostel infrastructure and insufficient space, lack of educational resources such as libraries and computer labs Inadequate sanitation, furniture, and recreational facilities Budget limitations hindering large-scale development are a few of the reasons that necessitated the introduction of the programme.

What was the Need

The marginalized tribal population in remote areas required quality residential facilities that supported education, hygiene, nutrition, and holistic development to break the cycle of social and economic exclusion.

What Hindered its Introduction

The project faced a few hindrances including, logistical and financial constraints. Further, it faced a resistance from families hesitant to send children far from home as well as had to deal with dverse and inaccessible geographic locations.

Process Followed for Implementation

Government: The project was executed under direct supervision of the department through a phased strategy—prioritizing institutions based on urgency and feasibility.
Community Involvement: Community leaders and parents were sensitized about the project to ensure enrollment and continued participation.

Solutions Implemented

Admitted students have been provided with a range of facilities in order to a proper quality of life. Further, computer labs and libraries have been set up by repurposing available rooms, sports facilities. Introduction of kitchen gardens and modern kitchens as well as construction of recreational facilities and staff residences within premises have also contributed to the students’ well being. Pure drinking water (including RO unit), 24×7 running water supply and clean and safe arrangement for storage of food grains and food items have also been provided.

Details of the Coverage

The first phase of the Department establishment and development of AdarshSanstha (Model Institutions) benefited 7058 students in 80 institutions spread across 09 districts. Through 66 model institutions spread across 07 districts, residential facilities were provided to 3300 students in the second phase. In the third phase (year 2022-23), residential facilities were extended to 4650 admitted students for 93 institutions from 12 identified districts.

Innovation and Unique Features

A number of innovations have been introduced including, use of solar power and RO water systems as well as dedicated space for motivational messages and cultural sensitivity. Libraries regularly updated with competitive and general reading materials

New Approaches: There has been an Integration of tech through computer labs. Further, capacity building via educational resources and self-directed learning have also been introduced.
Co-creation: Feedback from local communities influenced facility layouts and amenities, ensuring cultural and social relevance.
Project Evolution: Phased implementation allowed continuous learning and adaptation, including enhancement in infrastructure standards after each phase.

Challenges Faced Before Implementation

The central challenge was bringing the children living in the opposite geographical condition and remote tribal area to the school and tackling parental skepticism. Further, geographical adversity also remained a challenge.

Outcomes

Quantitative: Over 12,000 students have benefited within two years. There was a 100% pass rate in board exams for classes 10 and 12 in both 1st and 2nd phases.
Qualitative: There has been marked Improved academic performance, hygiene, nutrition, and emotional well-being and further witnessed, high parental satisfaction and increased enrollment interest
Monitoring and Evaluation: Regular departmental reviews and feedback from hostel superintendents, students, and parents. ISO certification added an external audit layer.