Kasturba Gandhi Residential School

The Kasturba Gandhi Residential School, operated by the Tharu Janjati Mahila Vikas Samiti in collaboration with the Directorate of Literacy, UP Government, was a beacon of hope and empowerment in the Balrampur district from 2008 to 2018.

This remarkable initiative was specifically designed to benefit 100 girls from the most deprived sections of society, encompassing Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and General (GEN) categories.

The primary mission of this programme was to reach out to 100 girls who had discontinued their education after the sixth, seventh, or eighth standard. These girls often belonged to economically disadvantaged families, facing insurmountable challenges to continue their education. The Kasturba Gandhi Residential School provided a lifeline by offering them free-of-cost residential services, which included morning breakfast, lunch, and dinner, uniforms, books, medicines, sanitary items, and personal care items.

Beyond addressing their basic needs, the school ensured a safe and hygienic living environment, where the girls could grow and thrive. This holistic approach not only covered their educational requirements but also took care of their well-being.

A critical aspect of the programme was its linkage with government schools to facilitate the enrolment of these girls in ninth and higher standards. This bridging effort helped these young students transition seamlessly into mainstream education, ensuring they had a path to achieve higher academic qualifications.

Moreover, the Kasturba Gandhi Residential School offered a well-rounded education, providing co-curricular activities alongside regular studies. This approach encouraged the girls to explore their talents, interests, and potential beyond the classroom. The Kasturba Gandhi Residential School, through its decade-long existence, symbolized a commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and social progress. It not only offered education but also hope and a future to girls who might have otherwise been denied these opportunities. The legacy of this programme is a testament to the transformative power of education and the impact it can have on the lives of those from the most marginalized backgrounds.