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 warm lunch in addition to the lessons. The children have a safe environment in which they can play and study with their school friends.
PENTHAKATA SCHOOL
BENEFICIARIES 2023: 408 CHILDREN
The fishing village of Penthakata was founded as an informal settlement by immigrants from Andhra Pradesh. Discriminated against because of their origin, language and social position and marked by poverty, the children of Penthakata did not attend school, but spent their time on the beach, at sea and in the streets. The opening of the Penthakata School in 1992 changed the situation for many of these children. Here they find a safe place to learn and can develop positive future perspectives. More than 400 pupils attend the school, from kindergarten to the 8th grade. The last two school years are spent at an external school and are financed by Usthi school sponsorships. In 2017 the school celebrated its 25th anniversary with a big celebration. In all these years, the Penthakata School has given thousands of children access to education and the chance of a better life. The success stories are impressive: Some are now successfully active in the IT sector; others have founded their own companies and are now training apprentices there. A few former pupils have even come together and now run another school in Penthakata. The education projects in India are supported by Kanton St.Gallen.
