Bridging the gap: Tribal schools empowering Gujarat's future

By Prabhdeep Singh
Dahod (Gujarat) [India], August 16 : In the heart of Gujarat, where the rich cultural tapestry of tribal communities' weaves through daily life, the Bhil Seva Mandal is making a profound impact.
Founded by pre-independence social reformer Thakkar Bapa, this organization runs Ashram Shalas, or residential schools, dedicated to the upliftment of tribal children.

These schools have become pillars of hope and progress for the tribal communities.
The unwavering support from the government, through scholarships and grants, has played a crucial role in making quality education accessible to tribal children.
These scholarships not only cover tuition fees but also provide allowances for books, uniforms, and other essential educational materials.
This support has led to a remarkable increase in school enrolments and has given the tribal communities a renewed sense of optimism.
With an approach that blends traditional wisdom with modern education, these schools are more than just places of learning. They focus on preserving cultural heritage, imparting vocational skills, and integrating digital literacy.
These schools boast a 100 per cent success rate in Class 10 examinations, reflecting their commitment to academic excellence.
Mukesh Parmar, Secretary of Bhil Seva Mandal, said, "The Bhil Seva Mandal operates approximately 60 such institutions, including 20 Ashram Shalas, providing education and residence to around 15,000 students. These schools have significantly improved the education ratio in the border areas of Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. The main factor is the provision of free food and lodging facilities. Many of these students come from families of labourers, small-scale farmers, or migrant workers. I, too, benefited from these opportunities, made possible through government schemes."
Nirali, a student, said, "Boys from our village who studied here have gone on to become teachers and even doctors, which is why my parents sent me here for a better future. We receive many facilities, including lodging and meals, and the teaching here is excellent. Learning with smart boards is particularly exciting for me."
Free education and hostel facilities motivated Jaggabhai Damor, a small-scale tribal farmer, to enrol his grandson, Vikram, at the Varuna Ashram Shala in Sukhsar village.
He is hopeful that education will bring positive changes to their family and notes that the initiative has already transformed many lives in the region.
Vikram Damor, a student, said, "My name is Vikram. I study in Class 9 at the Varuna Ashram, where I receive all facilities free of cost. I aspire to become a high-ranking officer in the future."
Jaggabhai Damor, a tribal farmer, said, "Our child studies at the Varuna Ashram. He receives food and other necessary facilities at the school, all free of cost. We are deeply grateful to the government for these opportunities."
By providing quality education while preserving the cultural heritage of the communities, the Bhil Seva Mandal, with the backing of government support, is not only shaping the future of these students but is also contributing to the overall development of Gujarat's tribal communities.