Jharsuguda: Vedanta Aluminium’s effortsto boost access to quality education havehad aprofound impact on secondary education and digital literacy levelsin the Jharsuguda district of Odisha. Through initiatives such asProject Vidyagraha and the Vedanta Mini Science Centre, as well as its support for the Government of Odisha’s Mo School Abhiyan program, the company is setting new benchmarks in academic advancement for government school students.
Project Vidyagraha: A Digital Leap in Academic Performance
Launched across 106 high schools across Jharsuguda, Project Vidyagraha has demonstrated remarkable success in enhancing the academic performance of students in Jharsuguda. The e-learning initiative focuses on providing digital learning resources via a web-based platform for Math, English, and Science subjects, and has yielded impressive results so far. In this year’s state board exams, six of the seven participating schools in the Vidyagraha programhave achieved a 100% pass rate, with one school securing a commendable 97.70% passing rate. Additionally, 51 students achievedfirst division distinction, and one student ranked third in the district with an outstanding 92% score.
The project benefits from the active involvement of over 100 employee volunteers from Vedanta Jharsuguda, who contribute their professional expertise and time to foster greater community engagement and learning opportunities for the students. Speaking on the success of the project, Dr Radhakanta Gartia, District Education Officer, Jharsuguda said, “Project Vidyagraha exemplifies a successful collaboration between corporate and educational sectors, significantly uplifting students’ academic achievements and career prospects.”
Vedanta Mini Science Centre: Igniting Curiosity through STEM
The Vedanta Mini Science Centres, installed in five schools across Jharsuguda, are revolutionizing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) learning in schools. Featuring interactive models and learning materials in regional languages, these centres enhance the students’ understanding through hands-on learning. Pranaya Kumar Patel, Headmaster, Debadhi High School, said, “The Mini Science Centre has significantly increased student interest and participation in science, fostering a culture of curiosity and innovation.”
Computer Literacy Program: Bridging the Digital Divide
Vedanta’s Computer Literacy Program addresses the critical need for digital skills among youths living in rural areas, who have limited access to learning opportunities. With three centres in Jharsuguda, the program offers basic computer education and vocational training, equipping students with essential skills crucial in this digital age. Ghasia Meher, Headmaster, Kurebaga High School, highlights, “The program is instrumental in preparing students for the digital age, enhancing their learning experience and future employment opportunities.”
Buddhi Artificial Intelligence (AI)Do It Yourself (DIY) Kit: A Step into the Future
In collaboration with CYRAN AI Solutions, Vedanta Jharsuguda has introduced the Buddhi AI DIY Kit in two CBSE schools in Jharsuguda. This innovative kit facilitates an intuitive understanding of Artificial Intelligence, aligning with CBSE curriculum and fostering creativity and problem-solving skills among young students. P.K. Panda, Principal, DAV Public School, Jharsuguda, shares, “The BuddhiAI Kit is a groundbreaking tool that integrates artificial intelligence-based tools into our educational framework, preparing students for a technology-driven future.”
Through these initiatives, Vedanta is enhancing educational outcomes in the remotest parts of Odisha. Each of these carefully- designed program underscores a commitment to nurturing talent, bridging gaps, andequipping students with the skills needed for a dynamic and ever-evolving world.