We have idenified education as a key means of improving the future and socio-economic background of the community in which we operate. We currently run two schools: School number 1 (also known as Number 10!), located in a small two-storied building in Nilmoni Mitra street; and Tala Park school located behind Tala park clinic. Our schools currently provide education , medical treatment and meals to more than 300 children from the slums and pavements of north and central Kolata.
Education:The schools follow the guidelines for the state literacy programme and cover Hindi, Bengali, English, maths and general knowledge. Those children who are of the right age and who are good at thier studies are sponsored to go to formal schools. Currently about 115 children are in the formal school programme. Where possible, art classes, sports, dancing and other extra curricular activities are also provided.
Medical Diagnosis & Treatment: Free treatment is given for diseases, dressings for wounds, emergency care where necessary and referral to hospital if required.
Preventative Medicine: Children recieve health education, de-worming, 6 monthly screening to check general health and developement, and we operate a comprehensive immunisation programme (OPV, DPT, BCG & measles). A dental hygiene programme operates with all children brushing thier teath daily, and a dentist visits them regularly.
Benifits: All children recieve a nutritious mid-day school meal as well as clothing benifits.
School Extension Programme: Our teachers don't just work with the children in our schools. Every month they also visit the slum areas to talk to the parents about the importance of children attending the school, and to reinforce health education.