A school education is still the most important means for paving the path to a safe and dignified future. For this reason, Usthi has always placed great emphasis on the education of children in need. In the three Usthi schools of Penthakata, Ananda and Thaddeus, almost 1,000 students attend school every day. A special focus in all Usthi schools is on the promotion of girls, as they are often held back from attending school. A sound knowledge of English is usually an important prerequisite for a successful job search later on, which is why English is an integral part of teaching. At the same time, the children’s cultural context is taken into account and local languages and cultural activities are promoted in all schools. The educational facilities were built in areas where there were no schools at the time. The three areas are still marked by poverty today, and many families cannot afford to send their children to school. At all Usthi schools there is clean drinking water and a lunch in addition to the lessons. The children have a safe environment in which they can play and study with their school friends.
ANANDA SCHOOL
BENEFICIARIES 2023: 250 CHILDREN
Every day Kolkata attracts countless people who flock to the city in search of a new beginning, education or work. In the harsh everyday reality of a city with millions of inhabitants, dreams of a decent life are often shattered in no time at all. Instead of leading a successful life in the city, many end up in slums and struggle as day labourers. For many, an escape from the urban misery is no longer possible. Usthi therefore specifically promotes education for people in rural areas in order to reduce their migration to urban areas. In 1987, Usthi opened its second school, the Ananda School, in rural Hudarait, outside Kolkata. Initially, 90 pupils attended school there, but after the extension of the school building, there are now about 200 children. The school offers lessons from kindergarten to 8th grade. As the infrastructure is not sufficient for the 9th and 10th grade, Usthi makes it possible for these classes to attend external schools. The 10th grade is followed by the state final examination, which is decisive for the further career of the young people. The education projects in India are supported by Kanton St.Gallen.
