Bridging the Educational Divide
Garo Hills has long been notorious for its abysmal pass rates in the SSLC and HSSLC exams. Many have pondered the cause, and one of the main factors seems to be the inadequate learning infrastructure at the lower primary level.
Non-formal education refers to educational activities outside the traditional school system. It encompasses a wide range of initiatives within the community, including home-based learning, government programs, and community-driven projects. These initiatives can be accredited courses offered by established institutions or locally run operations with limited funding. Non-formal education (NFE) serves as a strategy to provide elementary education to children between the ages of 6 and 14 who have been excluded from the formal education system due to various socio-economic constraints. The Centrally Sponsored NFE Scheme, launched in 1979-80, aims to establish NFE centers in villages without schools or with a high number of school dropouts.
While non-formal education encompasses various aspects, it shares similarities with lifelong learning. However, for these guidelines, the focus is on non-formal education for children and young people who are not part of the regular school system. Although non-formal education is often seen as a second-best option compared to formal schooling, it is important to note that it can provide a higher quality of education than what is available in traditional schools. Non-formal education can serve as a preparatory, supplementary, or even an excellent alternative to formal schooling for all children.
The NFE Centre will serve as a hub for educational activities, offering a range of programs tailored to the needs of the community. Our team of qualified educators will deliver engaging and interactive lessons, ensuring that each child receives personalized attention and support. We believe that education is a fundamental right, and through this initiative, we strive to make it accessible to every child in the region.
Transforming Words into Deeds
The remote village of Moradum in the South Garo Hills region presents a unique opportunity for the establishment of the NFE Centre. By utilizing the existing infrastructure, we can minimize costs and expedite the implementation process. Additionally, the support of the local congregation in Rongrengpal is invaluable, as their involvement will foster a sense of community ownership and sustainability.
A new Non-Formal Education Centre (NFE) has been established in the remote village of Moradum, located in the South Garo Hill district. This village lacks basic facilities and transportation options, making survival a challenge for its residents. The villagers have longed to provide their children with a basic education, and their dream has finally come true.
- On 08/03/2023, a team from Kerala visited Moradum village of South Garo Hills. The villagers expressed their desire for educational facilities for their children, who had not yet received any formal education. In response, we made a promise to prioritize the provision of educational resources.
- On 28/07/2023, a new shed was constructed as a common facility center. It serves as a place of worship on Sundays and transforms into a school for the children during the rest of the week. This facility, named GEMS Extension, was inaugurated on 13/02/2024, fulfilling our promise to the villagers.
