In a significant step towards empowerment of tribal students, Coal India Limited (CIL) under the Ministry of Coal and National Scheduled Tribe Finance and Development Corporation (NSTFDC) under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at empowering tribal students enrolled in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS). The MoU signing ceremony was held on today at National Tribal Research Institute, New Delhi in the august presence of Union Minister of Coal & Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy and Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Shri Jual Oram.
The project titled “Empowering Tribal Students in Eklavya Model Residential Schools through Digital Access, Career Mentorship, Menstrual Hygiene, and Teacher Capacity Building” aims to harness the power of education, technology, and holistic development to uplift tribal youth in India. Key components of the project include following:
- Digital Education: Distribution of desktops, UPS, and tablets to enhance digital access.
- Career Mentorship: Structured programs to guide tribal students in making informed career choices.
- Menstrual Hygiene: Installation of sanitary napkin vending machines and incinerators to promote health and dignity for girl students.
Officials from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs noted that the partnership will modernize EMRS infrastructure and prepare tribal students for higher education and professional opportunities. With 479 EMRS operational across India, including 68 in Chhattisgarh, the MoU marks a significant milestone in promoting social inclusion, digital literacy, and empowerment among tribal communities.