EDUCATION
An estimated 6 million children in India remain out of school. 29 % of girls and boys drop out of school before completing the full cycle of elementary education
– Based on data by Unicef*
We believe, Education is the biggest tool we have to bring about grassroots level change. An educated individual is an empowered individual. Keeping this in mind, we provide free holistic education to children from underprivileged sections of society until grade 5, at our school MANAAS SHIKSHA. Upon successful completion of Grade 5, we coordinate with Government schools and Private schools to ensure a seamless transfer of the student into mainstream education.
Often children drop out of school in middle and high school due to increased study costs, lack of family resources and support towards education. To bridge this gap, we have set up MAANAS Student Scholarship. Under this, we provide scholarships to ensure continuity of education. We also coach and mentor the students privately to ensure their comfort with the education methodology of the new schools. Further support is offered via mentoring of the senior students towards vocational courses and admission into the same.
HEALTHCARE
38.4% of children’s growth in India is stunted
– as per National Nutrition Strategy – NITI Aayog
Lack of a healthy diet, timely vaccinations and treatment lead to many physical defi ciencies and ailments which can be easily avoided or cured. At our Maanas Dispensary we ensure proper nutrition, regular health monitoring and immunisation for the children studying at our school and their families. We provide them with basic dental, vision care and refer any serious conditions to specialist doctors.
India ranks 145th among 195 countries in terms of quality access to health care.
– Analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015
To tackle this, we have a 3 pronged approach to our Healthcare Outreach.
First, is our Grow Healthy programme. Under this, we set up health camps to monitor the health parameters, conduct vision checks and distribute Albendazole – a deworming tablet to underprivileged children of NGOʼ run schools.
Second is our Stay Healthy program. Through this program we provide quality healthcare to the underprivileged adults especially women. We set up health camps in residential colonies where free health check-ups are provided to domestic staff, helpers, drivers and other underprivileged adults. A team of qualifi ed doctors diagnose, recommend treatment or further investigation and give out necessary Multi- Vitamins, Calcium, Iron and Folic Acid and supplements at little to no cost.
Third is our Age Happily program. Often the seniors, especially ones with reduced mobility, feel left out and lonely, leading to several mental ailments. Under this program, we assist in the emotional, physical and mental wellbeing of senior citizens across societal sections by spending time with them and keeping them engaged through axtivities of their interest. We also provide periodic support to Earth Saviors, an NGO working for the betterment of the underpriviliged Senior Citizens.
* https://www.unicef.org/india/what-we-do/education
** National Nutrition Strategy – NITI Aayog – 2015-2016
*** Healthcare Access and Quality Index based on mortality from causes amenable to personal health care in 195 countries and territories, 1990–2015: a novel analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015