A background report for the “Shiksha Saathi – Educational Empowerment Initiative”
1. Introduction
Over the past several months, we have been deeply engaged in understanding the real educational challenges faced by underprivileged children in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. While classroom education forms the backbone of a child’s learning journey, we have repeatedly observed that learning does not end at the school gate. For children from marginalized families, the absence of after-school academic support can mean the difference between staying in school and dropping out.With this in mind, our team conducted a ground-level educational survey in and around Kalyanpur, Old Shivli Road, and nearby communities in Kanpur. The aim was to assess how children are coping with their studies, what kind of academic support they receive at home, and where the gaps truly lie.
2. Survey Methodology
We approached the survey in a structured yet personal manner.
- Survey Period: 15 days (spread over December and January)
- Sample Size: 120 households, 6 schools, and 15 teachers
- Target Group: Students in Classes 5 to 10 from low-income families
- Data Collection Methods: Household visits, informal interviews with parents, discussions with teachers, and direct interaction with students
- Parameters Studied:
- Access to tuition or remedial classes
- Parental education levels
- Academic performance in key subjects (Mathematics, Science, English)
- Learning environment at home
- Attendance and drop-out risks
3. Key Findings
The survey revealed several serious gaps that demand urgent attention:
3.1 Lack of Access to After-School Support
- 65% of students surveyed have no access to tuition or any structured after-school learning help.
- For many, school is the only place they interact with a teacher; after school, they are often left to study alone or help with household chores.
3.2 Economic Barriers
- 58% of parents said they cannot afford private tuition, even if their child is struggling academically.
- Average family income in the surveyed households is ₹7,500 per month, which leaves little room for educational expenses beyond basic school fees.
3.3 Weak Academic Performance
- More than 50% of students scored below 40% in Mathematics in their last school exam.
- English proficiency is especially low — only 1 in 10 could read a simple English paragraph fluently.
3.4 Parental Education and Support
- 72% of parents have not studied beyond Class 8.
- Many parents expressed helplessness in guiding their children academically due to their own limited schooling.
3.5 Risk of Drop-Outs
- Teachers from 3 surveyed schools estimated that at least 20% of students in Classes 8–10 are at risk of dropping out in the next 2 years if their academic situation does not improve.
4. Stories Behind the Numbers
While statistics tell one part of the story, what stayed with us most were the children we met:
- Anjali, Class 7: Wants to become a nurse but struggles with Science because she has no one to explain concepts at home. Her mother works as a domestic help; her father is a daily-wage laborer.
- Rohit, Class 9: Failed in Mathematics twice but still dreams of joining the police force. He works part-time at a mechanic’s shop after school to support his family.
- Pooja, Class 6: Can recite multiplication tables fluently in Hindi but cannot read them in English — a clear example of the language gap affecting understanding.
These are not isolated cases; they are the reality for dozens of children in the communities we visited.
5. The Way Forward – Shiksha Saathi Initiative
Based on our findings, we are launching the “Shiksha Saathi – Educational Empowerment Initiative” in Kanpur.
5.1 What We Plan to Do
- Provide free tuition and remedial classes for 60 underprivileged children from Classes 5 to 10.
- Focus on core subjects — Mathematics, Science, and English.
- Conduct special study sessions before examinations.
- Include life skills sessions to build confidence and motivation.
5.2 Where It Will Be Implemented
Classes will be held at Dr. Narendra Saraswati Vidya Niketan Inter College, Old Shivli Road, Kalyanpur, Kanpur (U.P.).
5.3 Expected Outcomes in the First Year
- Academic Improvement: At least 20% increase in exam scores for 80% of participating students.
- Attendance Boost: 95% regular attendance in school and remedial classes.
- Language Skills: 70% of students able to read and write basic English fluently.
- Confidence Building: Visible improvement in participation and classroom interaction.
6. Why CSR Support Matters
Without financial support, many of these children will continue to slip through the cracks. CSR funding will directly cover:
- Teacher honorariums
- Study materials and stationery
- Learning aids and classroom resources
- Small scholarships for meritorious students from extremely poor backgrounds
An investment in this initiative is an investment in the future of these children, their families, and the community as a whole.
7. Conclusion
We came away from the survey with a deep sense of urgency. These children are not lacking in intelligence or ambition — they are lacking in opportunity and guidance. With the right support, they can rise above their circumstances and shape their own futures.The Shiksha Saathi program is not just about tuition classes; it is about giving these children a fair chance to succeed. We invite you to stand with us in making that possible.