Author: Smile Team

New Delhi: About 56 per cent of children were found to have no access to smartphones which have emerged as essential tools for online learning during the coronavirus-induced lockdown, according to a new study that surveyed 42,831 students at various school levels.

The study ‘Scenario amidst COVID 19 – Onground Situations and Possible Solutions’ was conducted by child rights NGO Smile Foundation with an aim of analysing the access to technology.

The findings of the study showed that 43.99 per cent of surveyed children have access to smartphones and another 43.99 per cent of students have access to basic phones while 12.02 per cent do not have access to either smartphones or basic phones.

A total of 56.01 per cent children were found to have no access to smartphones, the study said.

“Concerning television, it was noted that while 68.99 per cent have access to TV, a major chunk of 31.01 per cent does not. Hence suggesting that using smartphone interventions for enhancing learning outcomes is not the only solution,” it said.

At the primary level of education (class 1 to 5) 19,576 children were surveyed while at upper primary level (class 6 to 8) 12,277 children were surveyed. At secondary level of education (class 9 to 10) 5,537 children were surveyed and at higher secondary level (class 11 to 12) 3,216 children were surveyed.

The survey based on which the study was conducted used two approaches – over the telephone wherein the NGO reached out to the children whose database it already had — students enrolled in various education centres of the NGO — and second was through community mobilization wherein community workers went door to door to get answers.

The survey was conducted in 23 states, including Delhi, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, over a period of 12 days from April 16 to April 28.

The lockdown induced by the COVID-19 pandemic in March prompted schools and colleges to move to the virtual world for teaching and learning activities. However, many experts say the digital divide in the country may turn online classes into an operational nightmare.

As per official statistics, there are over 35 crore students in the country. However, it is not clear as to how many of them have access to digital devices and Internet.

Santanu Mishra, co-founder and executive trustee, Smile Foundation, said the findings clearly show that the digital divide is a real challenge, and multiple approaches need to be implemented to cater to all across the nation.

“As an exercise before we start any programme, we do a baseline study to understand the on-ground challenges so that our programmes can bring in real work and real change. With the onset of the pandemic, following indefinite school closures, it is more important than ever to understand the situation and how can we ensure that children are given quality education. Through this, we understand that customized modules need to be built in accordance with the channel of communication,” he said.

A total of 56.01 per cent children were found to have no access to smartphones, the study said.

New Delhi: About 56 per cent of children were found to have no access to smartphones which have emerged as essential tools for online learning during the coronavirus-induced lockdown, according to a new study that surveyed 42,831 students at various school levels.

The study ”Scenario amidst COVID 19 – Onground Situations and Possible Solutions” was conducted by child rights NGO Smile Foundation with an aim of analysing the access to technology.

The findings of the study showed that 43.99 per cent of surveyed children have access to smartphones and another 43.99 per cent of students have access to basic phones while 12.02 per cent do not have access to either smartphones or basic phones.

A total of 56.01 per cent children were found to have no access to smartphones, the study said.

“Concerning television, it was noted that while 68.99 per cent have access to TV, a major chunk of 31.01 per cent does not. Hence suggesting that using smartphone interventions for enhancing learning outcomes is not the only solution,” it said.

At the primary level of education (class 1 to 5) 19,576 children were surveyed while at upper primary level (class 6 to 8) 12,277 children were surveyed. At secondary level of education (class 9 to 10) 5,537 children were surveyed and at higher secondary level (class 11 to 12) 3,216 children were surveyed.

The survey based on which the study was conducted used two approaches – over the telephone wherein the NGO reached out to the children whose database it already had — students enrolled in various education centres of the NGO — and second was through community mobilization wherein community workers went door to door to get answers.

The survey was conducted in 23 states, including Delhi, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, over a period of 12 days from April 16 to April 28.

The lockdown induced by the COVID-19 pandemic in March prompted schools and colleges to move to the virtual world for teaching and learning activities. However, many experts say the digital divide in the country may turn online classes into an operational nightmare.

As per official statistics, there are over 35 crore students in the country. However, it is not clear as to how many of them have access to digital devices and Internet.

Santanu Mishra, co-founder and executive trustee, Smile Foundation, said the findings clearly show that the digital divide is a real challenge, and multiple approaches need to be implemented to cater to all across the nation.

“As an exercise before we start any programme, we do a baseline study to understand the on-ground challenges so that our programmes can bring in real work and real change. With the onset of the pandemic, following indefinite school closures, it is more important than ever to understand the situation and how can we ensure that children are given quality education. Through this, we understand that customized modules need to be built in accordance with the channel of communication,” he said.

The study ‘Scenario amidst COVID 19 – Onground Situations and Possible Solutions’ was conducted by child rights NGO Smile Foundation with an aim of analysing the access to technology.

Source: https://www.financialexpress.com/education-2/about-56-per-cent-of-children-have-no-access-to-smartphones-for-e-learning-study/1990506/

About 56 per cent of children were found to have no access to smartphones which have emerged as essential tools for online learning during the coronavirus-induced lockdown, according to a new study that surveyed 42,831 students at various school levels.

The study ‘Scenario amidst COVID 19 – Onground Situations and Possible Solutions’ was conducted by child rights NGO Smile Foundation with an aim of analysing the access to technology.

The findings of the study showed that 43.99 per cent of surveyed children have access to smartphones and another 43.99 per cent of students have access to basic phones while 12.02 per cent do not have access to either smartphones or basic phones.

A total of 56.01 per cent children were found to have no access to smartphones, the study said.

“Concerning television, it was noted that while 68.99 per cent have access to TV, a major chunk of 31.01 per cent does not. Hence suggesting that using smartphone interventions for enhancing learning outcomes is not the only solution,” it said.

At the primary level of education (class 1 to 5) 19,576 children were surveyed while at upper primary level (class 6 to 8) 12,277 children were surveyed. At secondary level of education (class 9 to 10) 5,537 children were surveyed and at higher secondary level (class 11 to 12) 3,216 children were surveyed.

The survey based on which the study was conducted used two approaches – over the telephone wherein the NGO reached out to the children whose database it already had — students enrolled in various education centres of the NGO — and second was through community mobilization wherein community workers went door to door to get answers.

The survey was conducted in 23 states, including Delhi, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, over a period of 12 days from April 16 to April 28.

The lockdown induced by the COVID-19 pandemic in March prompted schools and colleges to move to the virtual world for teaching and learning activities. However, many experts say the digital divide in the country may turn online classes into an operational nightmare.

As per official statistics, there are over 35 crore students in the country. However, it is not clear as to how many of them have access to digital devices and Internet.

Santanu Mishra, co-founder and executive trustee, Smile Foundation, said the findings clearly show that the digital divide is a real challenge, and multiple approaches need to be implemented to cater to all across the nation.

As an exercise before we start any programme, we do a baseline study to understand the on-ground challenges so that our programmes can bring in real work and real change. With the onset of the pandemic, following indefinite school closures, it is more important than ever to understand the situation and how can we ensure that children are given quality education. Through this, we understand that customized modules need to be built in accordance with the channel of communication,” he said.

About 56 per cent of children were found to have no access to smartphones which have emerged as essential tools for online learning during the coronavirus-induced lockdown, according to a new study that surveyed 42,831 students at various school levels.

The study ‘Scenario amidst COVID-19—Onground Situations and Possible Solutions’ was conducted by child rights NGO Smile Foundation with an aim of analysing the access to technology.

The findings of the study showed that 43.99 per cent of surveyed children have access to smartphones and another 43.99 per cent of students have access to basic phones while 12.02 per cent do not have access to either smartphones or basic phones.

A total of 56.01 per cent children were found to have no access to smartphones, the study said.

“Concerning television, it was noted that while 68.99 per cent have access to TV, a major chunk of 31.01 per cent does not. Hence, suggesting that using smartphone interventions for enhancing learning outcomes is not the only solution,” it said.

At the primary level of education (class 1 to 5) 19,576 children were surveyed while at upper primary level (class 6 to 8) 12,277 children were surveyed. At secondary level of education (class 9 to 10) 5,537 children were surveyed and at higher secondary level (class 11 to 12) 3,216 children were surveyed.

The survey based on which the study was conducted used two approaches – over the telephone wherein the NGO reached out to the children whose database it already had—students enrolled in various education centres of the NGO—and second was through community mobilization wherein community workers went door to door to get answers.

The survey was conducted in 23 states, including Delhi, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, over a period of 12 days from April 16 to April 28.

The lockdown induced by the COVID-19 pandemic in March prompted schools and colleges to move to the virtual world for teaching and learning activities. However, many experts say the digital divide in the country may turn online classes into an operational nightmare.

As per official statistics, there are over 35 crore students in the country. However, it is not clear as to how many of them have access to digital devices and Internet.

Santanu Mishra, co-founder and executive trustee, Smile Foundation, said the findings clearly show that the digital divide is a real challenge, and multiple approaches need to be implemented to cater to all across the nation.

“As an exercise before we start any programme, we do a baseline study to understand the on-ground challenges so that our programmes can bring in real work and real change. With the onset of the pandemic, following indefinite school closures, it is more important than ever to understand the situation and how can we ensure that children are given quality education. Through this, we understand that customized modules need to be built in accordance with the channel of communication,” he said.

The study ‘Scenario amidst COVID 19 – Onground Situations and Possible Solutions’ was conducted by child rights NGO Smile Foundation with an aim of analysing the access to technology

About 56 percent of children were found to have no access to smartphones which have emerged as essential tools for online learning during the coronavirus-induced lockdown, according to a new study that surveyed 42,831 students at various school levels.

The study ‘Scenario amidst COVID 19 – Onground Situations and Possible Solutions’ was conducted by child rights NGO Smile Foundation with an aim of analysing the access to technology.

The findings of the study showed that 43.99 percent of surveyed children have access to smartphones and another 43.99 percent of students have access to basic phones while 12.02 percent do not have access to either smartphones or basic phones.

A total of 56.01 percent children were found to have no access to smartphones, the study said.

“Concerning television, it was noted that while 68.99 percent have access to TV, a major chunk of 31.01 percent does not. Hence suggesting that using smartphone interventions for enhancing learning outcomes is not the only solution,” it said.

At the primary level of education (class 1 to 5) 19,576 children were surveyed while at upper primary level (class 6 to 8) 12,277 children were surveyed. At secondary level of education (class 9 to 10) 5,537 children were surveyed and at higher secondary level (class 11 to 12) 3,216 children were surveyed.

The survey based on which the study was conducted used two approaches – over the telephone wherein the NGO reached out to the children whose database it already had — students enrolled in various education centres of the NGO — and second was through community mobilization wherein community workers went door to door to get answers.

The survey was conducted in 23 states, including Delhi, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, over a period of 12 days from April 16 to April 28.

The lockdown induced by the COVID-19 pandemic in March prompted schools and colleges to move to the virtual world for teaching and learning activities. However, many experts say the digital divide in the country may turn online classes into an operational nightmare.

As per official statistics, there are over 35 crore students in the country. However, it is not clear as to how many of them have access to digital devices and Internet.

Santanu Mishra, co-founder and executive trustee, Smile Foundation, said the findings clearly show that the digital divide is a real challenge, and multiple approaches need to be implemented to cater to all across the nation.

“As an exercise before we start any programme, we do a baseline study to understand the on-ground challenges so that our programmes can bring in real work and real change. With the onset of the pandemic, following indefinite school closures, it is more important than ever to understand the situation and how can we ensure that children are given quality education. Through this, we understand that customized modules need to be built in accordance with the channel of communication,” he said.

Quaker Oats, one of India’s leading brands in the oats segment, from the house of PepsiCo India, is all set to take forward the organization’s on-going efforts to combat the COVID-19 outbreak. Quaker Oats will provide over 1 lakh meals to doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals working tirelessly in COVID-19 specialty hospitals across New Delhi.

The meals will be provided by installing Quaker Oats vending machines in leading government hospitals. The special initiative is supported by Smile Foundation, and was flagged off by Dr. Randeep Gulleria, Director, AIIMS along with Abhishek Singh, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, New Delhi.

The Quaker machines are being installed at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, as well as at Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). As a result of increased work-pressure due to the on-going COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare workers have often found themselves working long hours. Through these vending machines, the brand aims to equip the frontline warriors with easy access to Quaker Oats on the go.

Talking about the initiative, Abhishek Singh, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, New Delhi, said, “The effort put in by doctors and paramedic staff in these times of pandemic is unparalleled. Contribution to salute the spirit of these brave corona warriors is deeply appreciated.”

Santanu Mishra, Co-founder and Trustee, Smile Foundation, said, “It is our absolute privilege to support PepsiCo India in this unique initiative for the doctors and other healthcare staff who are working tirelessly to save lives across the globe. Smile Foundation through various campaigns is supporting not just the underserved communities but also render all support to all corona warriors – including doctors, paramedics, policemen etc., in the combined fight against Covid-19. We have to win this fight together.”

Dilen Gandhi, Sr. Director and Category Head – Foods, PepsiCo India, said, “Over the last few months, doctors, nurses and other medical professionals have showcased deep compassion and heroic courage in the ongoing fight against Coronavirus. We believe that brands and organizations can also play a pivotal role in supporting the nation by going the extra mile in these unprecedented times. We, at PepsiCo India, express our deepest gratitude to these ‘Real Fit Heroes’ and salute them for their selfless spirit and unwavering dedication”.

In the face of the current challenging times, numerous unsung heroes continue to work relentlessly. It’s the behind-the-scenes efforts of farmers, truck drivers, factory workers, salespeople, retailers, and delivery executives that has ensured that millions of consumers continue to receive consumer products every day across the country. Recognizing their dedication and commitment LAY’S has rolled out a special initiative for these unsung heroes and has partnered with Smile Foundation to provide hygiene kits to over 40,000 families.

These hygiene kits contain masks and sanitizers, to support these heroes as they continue to work hard in these unprecedented times. This association comes at the back of the brand’s recent campaign, aptly titled #Heartwork, a heartfelt and emotional ode to each such hero.

Santanu Mishra, Co-Founder and Trustee, Smile Foundation said, “Smile Foundation is happy to partner with LAY’S on this initiative of providing Hygiene Kits to the community. Having worked in the field of health for over a decade now, we realise the importance of raising awareness around the problem of sanitation among the people working in the industry supply chain. They have been the unsung corona warriors, who have been working constantly despite the challenges. If they are healthy, the whole chain stays active. We urge people to support us, support them.”

Expressing his thoughts on the association, Dilen Gandhi, Senior Director and Category Head – Foods, PepsiCo India said, “This association with Smile Foundation, our NGO partner, is an extension of our gesture to express sincere gratitude towards farmers, truck drivers, retailers, and all other unsung heroes. Despite facing numerous hurdles, these heroes have continued with their daily jobs relentlessly and brought joy to millions of consumers across India. Our initiative is just a small effort to thank them for their heartwork.”

Call to Action…We all need to come together

LAY’S and Smile Foundation are also calling out to people across India to support this special initiative by contributing to the #Heartwork of all these unseen heroes. A special microsite theheartwork.support has also been created to channelize contributions towards this program. The association also aims to mobilize participation from partners across the industry to come together for this cause.