Model Residential Schools Empowering Tribal Students
There has been over 3-fold increase in number of Functional Eklavya Model Residential Schools since 2014 in the country
The Government of India has placed significant emphasis on ensuring that Tribal students receive access to quality education.
Recognizing that educational development acts as a pivotal catalyst for economic and social progress, the Central Government has decided to establish Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) in every block with 50% or more Scheduled Tribe (ST) population and at least 20,000 tribal persons.
A total number of 740 EMRSs are proposed to be established across the country by the year 2025-26 to benefit 3.5 lakh ST students. Prior to 2014, 167 EMRS were sanctioned out of which only 119 were functional. However, in the past nine years, the number of sanctioned schools has significantly increased to 690. Out of these, 401 EMRS have been made functional throughout the country, providing education to over 1.13 lakh students. Notably, this includes a significant enrolment of girls (51% of students), ensuring their access to educational opportunities.
In the Union Budget 2023-24, the Government of India has announced the recruitment of 38,800 teachers and support staff over the next three years for the 740 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS), serving 3.5 lakh tribal students.
Additionally, the government has planned to establish technology-enabled classrooms (Smart Classrooms) in 175 schools.
Overall, plans way ahead are :
Construction of Schools
– Completion of construction of all remaining schools is expected by the year 2024
– Carrying out a detailed survey for identifying components for upgradation in old schools and taking up the upgradation of the schools.
– Strive for making the school buildings ‘Green’.
– Collaborate with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy to introduce solar/wind-based electrification, water heating etc.
Campus Development
– Introduction of sustainable features in schools like rainwater harvesting, waste composting, sewage / wastewater treatment etc.
– Development of kitchen gardens with nutrition-rich plants which can act as a learning ground for children and serve the hostel mess.
– Promote plantation in campus through collaboration with the local office of the Forest Department.
– Promotion of local art in the schools through workshops for children and local artists.
– Establishing mini-tribal museums in the schools.
– Standardization of names of all the schools like JNV to create a brand value and instill a sense of pride among the children and alumni.
Academic Development
– CBSE affiliation of all remaining EMRSs is in progress.
– Establishment of Atal Tinkering Labs in functional EMRSs.
– Coaching for competitive examinations through tie-ups with reputed organizations / agencies.
– Bridge course for students on admission in 6th class
– Introduction of Soft skill training, career counselling etc. in schools.
– Organizing Regional Science Congress like the JNVs to inculcate scientific temper and promote scientific talent amongst the students.
Co-Curricular Development
– Introduction of NCC, Scout & Guide, Red Cross, NSS etc. in all schools
– Celebration of all major National Events in a befitting manner.
– Organizing School, State and National Level EMRS Cultural Fest on a regular basis.
Human Resource Management
– Filling up of existing vacancies of teaching and non-teaching staff in the schools through the State / UT EMRS Societies.
– Capacity Building of all teachers through different programmes in collaboration with Government and reputed Non–Government agencies.
In conclusion, the EMRS scheme has been instrumental in providing quality education and holistic development opportunities to ST students. These efforts collectively aim to bridge the educational gap and empower tribal students with the necessary skills and opportunities for a brighter future.
