2006 TO 2016: YOUTH INTEGRATION NEPAL
In 2006, Usthi and another organisation took over responsibility for the integration of young orphans in Nepal in response to a request asking for content-related as well as financial support. In addition to providing accommodation and training for the young people, the project also supported their personal development and their successful entry into professional life. After the local partner successfully achieved financial independence, Usthi ended its cooperation and concentrated on new projects.
2006 TO 2015: KOLAR SCHOOL
The Usthi Foundation expanded its responsibility in the field of education in 2006. In cooperation with a local partner, two schools for children affected by poverty were set up. The Kolar School, east of Bengaluru, reached its final expansion with 480 pupils, and financial independence in 2015. As a result, the school was handed over to local responsibility. The Thaddeus School in Bhastara, which was opened during the same period, is still under the responsibility of Usthi.
1977 TO 2005: SCHOOL CENTRE USTHI
Through their private commitment to children in need with a street kitchen in Kolkata, Kurt and Edeltrud Bürki built a local network that motivated them to set up another project outside of Kolkata. The Usthi School Centre, south of Kolkata, opened its doors in 1977 and was the foundation’s first project and namesake as well. Usthi was more than just a school. The project included a farm with a little market, which generated income and food for the project, a kindergarten with a focus on health and the support of a repair shop, a tailor’s shop and a restaurant, which were run by graduates independently. After almost 30 years, the project was handed over to local responsibility in 2005.