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Author: Smile Editorial Team

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Partnerships

Power of Cause-marketing for Brands

Understanding the full scope of ECCE and FLN
Understanding the full scope of ECCE and FLN

We are living in a socially-conscious world where customers are demanding more and more from the brands to disclose if their production processes follow ethical guidelines. Therefore, today the brands are not just about products and services. They are about values, beliefs, and making a difference. Owing to this need, cause-related marketing (CRM) has emerged as a powerful strategy that allows brands to align with social causes, creating a win-win situation for both businesses and society.

Let us look at how cause-related marketing works for brands:

Understanding Cause-Related Marketing

Cause-related marketing is a collaboration between a for-profit business and a non-profit organisation in a way that the business provides the finances and the NGO takes care of implementation. It involves marketing campaigns that promote a social cause while simultaneously driving business objectives. For example, a cab-service provider may tie up with an NGO like ours to run a campaign around women’s safety. This way, the business will be able to showcase itself as a safe travel service provider for women while also spreading awareness on the issue. This strategy not only enhances brand image but also fosters customer loyalty and trust.

CRM works well because customers are becoming increasingly aware of social issues and expect their favourite brands to invest in those causes. In fact, customers are also open to changing their brand loyalty based on which business invests its resources in such campaigns. According to a study by Cone Communications, 87% of consumers said they would purchase a product because a company advocated for an issue they cared about. This demonstrates the potential of CRM to influence purchasing decisions and build a loyal customer base.

Benefits of Cause-Related Marketing

The biggest benefit of CRM is that it builds trust and loyalty for the brand. At the same time, it also pushes the brands to invest in causes in which it otherwise may not have invested in. For example, brands like shoe-manufacturing companies have run campaigns where they would donate one pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair bought by the customers. Such campaigns create a positive image of the brand in the minds of the people and drive growth. Think of CRM as planting seeds of goodwill. As these seeds grow, they cultivate a garden of loyal customers who trust and support the brand.

Another benefit of CRM is that it differentiates the brand from others in a competitive market. For example, brands like Body Shop have presented themselves as ethical beauty products manufacturers by running campaigns against animal testing. This has positioned the brand as an ethical brand which customers can rely on. Today there are many other brands which use similar techniques to set them apart from their competitors. CRM acts like a spotlight, highlighting a brand’s commitment to social responsibility and setting it apart in a crowded market.

Lastly, it can also drive growth for the brands by increasing sales as customers prefer to buy products from a brand which seems to be investing its money in good causes. One such example is that of P&G’s Shiksha campaign under which a portion of sales from certain products is donated for the education of underprivileged children. Thus, buying these products gives customers the impression that they are contributing to a noble cause. This drives the sale of the products too. CRM is like a magnet, attracting socially conscious consumers and driving sales while making a positive impact.

Successful Campaigns

While we have already looked at some examples above, let us go through a few more case studies to understand how CRM works.

First example is the College Achievement Plan run by Starbucks in partnership with Arizona State University in the United States. Under the campaign, Starbucks offers tuition fees for education of its employees, improving access to college education for students coming from less-privileged backgrounds. Another example from the US is that of Nike’s equality campaign through which it promotes inclusion. The brand has created a positive image of Nike for its customers.

In India, similar campaigns have been run by multiple brands and there is no dearth of such examples. One of the unique campaigns was run by Vistara where it partnered with us to provide children from low-income families their first flight experience. This made for a positive campaign that brought smiles on many faces and created a good image of the brand. Similarly, Johnson Tiles also ran a campaign to make public places accessible for the differently-abled. These examples show us that CRM is used prominently by brands of different sizes operating in diverse industries.

Implementing Cause-Related Marketing

If you are a business that is looking to implement CRM in its approach, then there are a few things that you should keep in mind. First, you should choose causes that resonate with your brand values and target audience. Authenticity is key to building trust and credibility. For example, a beauty brand might align with environmental causes, while a tech company could support digital literacy initiatives.

Second, your focus should be on engaging and educating the audiences rather than just increasing business for your brand. Use storytelling to connect with your audience emotionally. Share stories of impact and progress to keep them engaged. For example, share testimonials from beneficiaries or behind-the-scenes content of your initiatives.

Third, you should always establish mechanisms to measure the impact of your campaigns and refine it according to the needs. Track the impact of your campaigns and communicate the results transparently. This builds trust and encourages continued support. Lastly, you should always ensure that you collaborate with reliable partners like reputable non-profits to ensure the effectiveness and credibility of your campaigns.

Cause-related marketing is a powerful tool for brands to make a meaningful impact on society while driving business success. By aligning with social causes, brands can build loyalty, enhance their image and drive growth. As we move towards a more socially conscious world, the power of cause-related marketing will only continue to grow.

Partner with us for your first or next cause marketing campaign here.

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Smile

Income Inequality: Is that India’s biggest curse?

Income Inequality: Is that India’s biggest curse?
Income Inequality: Is that India’s biggest curse?

Earlier this year, major publications featured similar headlines highlighting the growing issue of income inequality in India. They referred to a report that indicates that India’s top 1 percent hold about 40 per cent wealth. Thus, despite being one of the fastest-growing economies globally, India also stands out as one of the most unequal countries globally. This is particularly staggering an issue for a country like India because economic inequality only exacerbates a society already divided along lines of caste, religion, region and gender. This issue of income inequality is thus complex and multifaceted, deeply embedded in historical and structural contexts. 

This presents a significant challenge to the country’s progress. By examining its historical roots, current effects and its repercussions across various workstreams, we can gain insight into how the same poses a structural problem that requires attention.

Dive into the past and present 

During much of the 1930s, under British rule, India saw the richest 1 percent of its population controlling about 20 percent of the national income. In ‘Economic Equality in India: The ‘Billionaire Raj’ is now more equal than the British Raj’, a 2024 paper authored by Nitin Kumar Bharti, Lucas Chancel, Thomas Piketty and Anmol Somanchi at World Inequality Lab, it is further revealed that since post-independence India initially pursued a path of planned economic development with a focus on social justice and equitable growth, income inequality significantly decreased. This reduction can be attributed to the broadly socialist policies adopted by the government.

However, the researchers note a marked increase in inequality after the 1980s. The reach combines national income accounts, wealth aggregates, tax tabulations, rich lists and surveys on income, consumption and wealth to showcase how the legacy of colonial exploitation had already left structural imbalances and the liberalisation era that began in the early 1990s marked a significant shift in India’s economic trajectory, causing numbers to skyrocket post-2000. The report reveals that between 2014-15 and 2022-23, wealth concentration at the top end surged notably. By 2022-23, the income and wealth shares of the top 1 percent had reached unprecedented levels, standing at 22.6 percent and 40.1 percent, respectively. 

Negligible growth

An opinion piece published in Deccan Herald argues that while the wealthy have experienced more substantial financial gains compared to the less affluent, overall living standards have risen for all. This improvement has left many to believe that, despite the unequal distribution of wealth, there have been positive developments for the broader population. However, the writers refute this claim using data from the World Inequality Database on the trend of absolute income of the two income classes. They show that post-1991, the absolute income of the top 1 percent increased drastically, while the absolute income of the bottom 50 percent saw negligible growth.

Income inequality in India today is stark and troubling. Between 2014 to 2022, the net wealth of Indian billionaires surged by over 280 percent. This growth rate is a staggering 10 times faster than the 27.8 percent increase in national income during the same period, as reported in the annual Forbes lists of the world’s richest individuals—the publication carried a record number of 200 Indians in total in the Forbes 2024 World’s Billionaires list.

A prevailing problem 

This extreme disparity is not merely a statistical anomaly but a manifestation of deep-seated structural issues within the economy and society. Furthermore, the consequences of this inequality extend far beyond financial statistics. In education, for instance, access to high-quality institutions and resources is predominantly available to the wealthy. In healthcare, affluent individuals can afford advanced medical treatments and private facilities while the less privileged struggle with underfunded public healthcare systems. The same divide is evident in sanitation, livelihoods and other arenas wherein  a major segment of the country’s population has to languish for day-to-day survival and basic necessities. Existent differences characterised by caste, gender and religion only make the situation worse. 

Here are more statistics from the World Inequality Lab: Just 1 percent of Indians are responsible for 45 percent of all flights taken in the country. Only 2.6 percent of the population invests in mutual funds, and 6.5 percent accounts for 45 percent of all digital payments. This economic divide even extends to everyday consumption: 5 percent of Zomato’s users, the largest food delivery app in India, are responsible for a third of all orders placed. On the other hand, as per the 2023 Global Hunger Index gives India a rank of 111 out of 125 countries. This indicates a level of severe hunger in the country. In fact, about 224 million people in the country live in chronic hunger. 

These figures underscore the deepening inequality in India, where a small elite controls a disproportionate share of wealth and consumption, reflecting broader trends of economic disparity. 

Comprehensive and sustainable strategies

When we are addressing the issue of income inequality, one also needs to understand that the same is a highly complex and layered issue intertwined with other issues such as inadequate infrastructure, political instability and environmental concerns. Income inequality is both a symptom and a driver of broader systemic issues. To address this issue of income inequality from its root cause, the government would need to adopt comprehensive and sustainable strategies that address the issues in its entirety. By focusing on inclusive growth, equitable distribution of resources, and systemic reforms, India can foster a more just and prosperous society. The pursuit of such goals will not only alleviate economic disparities but also enhance social harmony and national progress.

In the context of growing income inequality, nonprofits like ours are making contributions toward a fairer society. Our work focuses on addressing key issues such as poverty, education, gender equality, skilling, livelihood and healthcare. Through various initiatives, Smile Foundation supports low-income communities by providing educational opportunities for children, skilling courses for youth, promoting women’s empowerment and improving access to healthcare. While the challenge of economic disparity remains significant, we do our part in helping those who are most in need and striving for a more equitable world.

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Partners In Change Partnerships Smile

Smile’s Best CSR Partnerships in India: What Makes Us Proud

Smile’s Best CSR Partnerships in India: What Makes Us Proud
Smile’s Best CSR Partnerships in India: What Makes Us Proud

At Smile Foundation, our mission is to bring sustainable changes in the lives of children and families across India. This is achieved through education, healthcare, women empowerment and livelihood programmes. With the generous support of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) partners, we have been able to extend our reach and impact, transforming communities.

Here, we highlight some of our best CSR partnerships that have supported our programmes and exemplified the spirit of giving and social responsibility. These CSR partnerships are a proof about what can be achieved when corporate entities collaborate with grassroots organisations to create meaningful change.

1. GlaxoSmithKline Asia Pvt Ltd. 

Our partnership with GlaxoSmithKline Pvt. Ltd. has significantly boosted our healthcare initiative. Through this collaboration, GlaxoSmithKline, the maker of Sensodyne, and Smile Foundation have launched the “Smile On Wheels” mobile medical units as part of their CSR initiative. 

In India, 85-90% of adults and 60-80% of children suffer from dental issues. Acknowledging the urgent need for dental care, this initiative aims to improve oral health in India by providing free dental consultations to underserved communities and enhancing access to dental care at the grassroots level. Equipped with a GPS facility and staffed by a registered dentist, technician and program coordinator, these mobile units are operated by Smile Foundation to raise awareness about oral health and hygiene and to increase access to oral healthcare services. 

2. Berger Paints

Berger Paints’ partnership with Smile Foundation has made efforts towards enhancing entrepreneurial skills and employment opportunities for upskilling painters in India. Their support has been pivotal in our flagship program, “Smile Twin e-Learning Programme (STeP),” which provides training to the old and young painters of our country to improve their skills through upskilling modules. 

Berger Paints and Smile Foundation have jointly implemented the iTrain on Wheels Program, which trains painters in contemporary painting techniques. Besides facilitating the initiative, Smile Foundation will look after its monitoring and evaluation and impact assessment. This initiative has been crucial in creating numerous job and also entrepreneurial opportunities for painters across India. 

3. PepsiCo India

PepsiCo India has been a steadfast supporter of our nutrition enhancement initiatives. After the successful implementation of Project Sampoorna, a groundbreaking effort to combat anaemia and malnutrition among adolescent girls in Gujarat, PepsiCo and Smile Foundation joined hands to address the healthcare and nutrition needs of underserved communities in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh. This very recent partnership focused on upgrading and strengthening Primary Health Centers (PHCs) and introducing a Nutrition Enhancement Programme.

They project installed state-of-the-art machines at 27 identified PHCs. Additionally, the project includes collaborating with the government and conducting capacity-building sessions to ensure the effective use of these machines and the provision of quality healthcare to the rural populations with a focus on mother-child well-being, health and nutrition.

4. Ericsson India

Ericsson India’s collaboration with Smile Foundation has significantly strengthened our efforts to promote skill development and livelihood opportunities among youth of very low-income families. Since 2015, we have partnered with Ericsson India to operate 40 “Smile Twin e-Learning Programme” (STeP) centers across five cities: Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore, Chennai, and Pune. 

This partnership aims to train individuals in short technical courses, preparing them for roles such as general duty/bedside assistants, patient care executives, front desk executives and telemarketers. By providing essential skills and training, we help these young individuals secure meaningful employment and build a brighter future.

5. Aditya Birla Capital Foundation

Since 2019, Smile Foundation’s partnership with Aditya Birla Capital Foundation has advanced education programs in the rural areas of Siddharthnagar and Shravasti of Uttar Pradesh. This collaboration aims to provide equitable access to quality education for children from poor socio-economic backgrounds. It is done through a four-pronged approach:

  • building a child-centred
  • teacher-centred learning environment
  • fostering community engagement
  • and creating a supportive atmosphere for learning.

Major interventions include setting up digital classes with solar panel power backups and training teachers in pedagogy and digital media use. Efforts were also made to re-enroll students who dropped out during the COVID-19 pandemic and focus on educational recovery for children who missed schooling during the lockdown. This comprehensive approach ensures that every child has the opportunity to receive a quality education.

6. Avery Dennison

Avery Dennison collaborated with Smile Foundation to empower women and adolescent girls in two villages of Gurugram, Haryana. Together, we launched a project titled “Empowering Women and Adolescent Girls Through Reproductive Health Education and Entrepreneurship Development” under our women empowerment program, “Swabhiman.”

This initiative takes a community-focused, sustainable approach, aiming to enhance reproductive well-being by merging health and economic development efforts. It supports the establishment of group model enterprises, encouraging women to achieve financial independence by starting their own businesses. By integrating reproductive health education with entrepreneurship training, the project ensures a holistic and lasting impact on the community.

7. Philips India

Philips India teamed up with Smile Foundation to improve access to quality primary healthcare services in Virudhunagar (Tamil Nadu), Gadag (Karnataka), Mewat (Haryana) and the Shirur Block of Pune. We deployed four mobile telemedicine units in these districts, which have been operational for the last five years. 

These units are dedicated to delivering essential primary healthcare services to urban slums and rural areas. This initiative has made significant strides in enhancing the healthcare landscape of these regions. Through this partnership, we have brought much-needed medical support to underserved communities, ensuring better health outcomes for countless individuals.

Celebrating CSR Partnerships and spreading smiles to the last mile

At Smile Foundation, we are incredibly proud of our CSR partnerships that have not only amplified our impact but have also set a benchmark for corporate social responsibility in India. Together, we are making a difference, one community at a time. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support and commitment to our cause. 

We also invite other companies to partner with us in our endeavours. You can fulfil your CSR goals by supporting our programs on education, healthcare, skilling and women empowerment. Together, we will continue to smile, inspire and create a better world for generations to come.

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Health

In the pink of health: Mother and Child

breastfeeding
breastfeeding

All over India Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) workers visit the houses of pregnant mothers once a few months to ensure that both mother and foetus are healthy. The visits don’t just end there. The workers continue to visit at least till the baby reaches one year. With the assistance of staff from the health department, ASHAs and Anganwadi workers, the government has been ensuring both mothers and children are in the pink of health. India has been making consistent progress in maternal and newborn health.

Statista’s report titled ‘India: Infant mortality rate from 2012 to 2022’ says that India has recorded about 25 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2022. The mortality rate has come down significantly in comparison with the infant mortality rate in 2012, which was 42 deaths per 1,000 live births. However, India has recorded the highest number of preterm births globally, and the number stands at 3.02 million in 2020. It contributes to more than 20% of preterm births occurring globally, according to a study published in The Lancet journal.

Similarly, India’s Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) has stood at 103 in 2020, as per the United Nations Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group (UN MMEIG) 2020 report titled, ‘Trends in maternal mortality 2000 to 2020’. The report confirms that the MMR has come down by 6.36% during the period 2000-2020. India’s declination rate is higher than the global decline, which is 2.07%.

It is always important to understand the underlying factors impacting the health of mother and child in the journey towards finding a solution.

Factors impacting the health of mother and child

  1. Socio-economic factors: Considered as the fundamental determinants of health, socio-economic factors have a direct impact on the health outcomes of both mothers and children. These factors influence their access to quality healthcare, nutrition, and other resources, hygiene, and overall well-being. Economic constraints can limit a family’s ability to purchase nutritious food and limit their access to prenatal and postnatal care, vaccinations and treatments. It in turn might lead to a range of health problems. Poor sanitation will significantly increase the risk of diseases and infections.
  2. Environmental factors: These factors play a vital role in the well-being of both mother and child. Gone are the days when whole foods were blindly believed to be healthy. Contamination of food with pesticides, pathogens and heavy metals can adversely affect the health of people, especially pregnant women and children who are very sensitive to foodborne illness. These illnesses can in turn lead not just to nutritional deficiencies but also to other health complications. Similarly, limitations to access to clean and safe drinking water can lead to gastrointestinal infections. They are considered dangerous for children and pregnant women.

State efforts

The efforts taken by the government are in line with the UN’s sustainable development goals. The goals are to reduce maternal mortality, end epidemics, reduce neonatal and child mortality, end malnutrition, provide access to sexual and reproductive health services and provide universal access to safe water. Some of the schemes that are taken to tackle the issues are

  1. Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA): The scheme aims at providing free, assured, comprehensive and quality antenatal care on the 9th day of every month to all pregnant women in their second and third trimesters.
  2. Surakshit Matritva Aashwasan (SUMAN): This scheme aims at providing free, assured, dignified, and quality healthcare for every woman and newborn visiting the public health facility. The scheme ensures there is zero tolerance for denial of healthcare service to them.
  3. Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakaram (JSSK): Under the scheme, every pregnant woman is entitled to avail of free delivery, including caesarean sections, in public hospitals, along with free transportation, diagnostics, medicines and other consumables. Similar entitlements would be provided to sick infants accessing public hospitals.
  4. Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0: The scheme ensures that pregnant women and lactating mothers get supplementary nutrition. It is to strengthen their nutritional content, thereby nurturing health, wellness and immunity to diseases and malnutrition.

This apart, required maternal and child care will be provided through outreach programmes by Anganwadi staff as a part of their monthly village health, sanitation, and nutrition day. Outreach camps will be organised in remote and tribal locations to increase awareness for maternal and child health services and to track high-risk pregnancies. Staff of health and wellness centres organise camps at localities of marginalised communities on a regular basis. 

Smile Foundation’s role in the health of mother and child

Due to the large population and unevenly distributed medical resources, delivering quality healthcare to everyone, especially those in remote locations, continues to remain a challenge in the country. Smile Foundation bridges that gap through their intervention programmes. For the programmes aimed at providing primary healthcare services at the doorsteps of vulnerable households in rural and urban slums. As a part of the programme, we provide both preventive and curative services by addressing the gaps in availability, accessibility and affordability of healthcare.

Also, we work on increasing awareness of government schemes, supporting the public healthcare system, improving health-seeking behaviour and reducing out-of-pocket expenses. We have upgraded six primary health centers in Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad by providing equipment like ECG machines, OT lights, radiant baby warmers, weighing scales and biomedical waste trolleys, among others. 

Providing specialised consultations through telemedicine services in these cities is also one of our major intervention areas. This year, over 10 lakh people from 16 states have benefitted through our concerted healthcare efforts, of which 75% are women and children. The healthcare initiative has sensitised over 75,000 on topics related to health and hygiene. Over 80,000 people benefited through our telemedicine programme.

Keep spreading smiles everywhere

What is more satisfying than seeing the tears of joy in the eyes of beneficiaries? One such beneficiary is five-year-old Rani, who lives at Sukhrali village in Gurugram. During the pandemic, she suffered from an injury on her right foot and couldn’t walk on her own. She couldn’t go to the hospital due to financial constraints. However, her family came to know about the foundation’s mobile clinic service, ‘Smiles on Wheels,’ and brought her to the clinic. Due to the right and timely medical intervention, Rani’s foot has recovered. She is not just walking without pain but also seen as one of the happiest children in the locality.

To learn more about our healthcare CSR projects and to partner, connect with us at cp@smilefoundationindia.org.

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Education Smile

Taking care of the socio-emotional needs of children

Socio Emotional Development In Childhood
Socio Emotional Development In Childhood

In psychology, socio-emotional development is often viewed as an ongoing process where the human mind evolves through cycles of crisis and resolution. This development is essential for the overall growth of a child, with the foundational stages of socio-emotional needs beginning at birth. Children learn at an astonishing rate from their observations and experiences.

Numerous studies over the years have demonstrated that the socio-emotional needs met during preschool significantly influence an individual’s ability to adapt and succeed later in life. This development starts from day one, establishing the foundations for emotional regulation, kindness, acceptance and resilience in the face of life’s challenges. These crucial skills are nurtured during childhood.

As adults, including educators, parents and caregivers, it is vital to provide children with a safe environment where they can freely express their emotions and come to terms with their feelings.

How to address the socio-emotional needs of children

In a developing country like India, where 7.8 million children live in slums and poverty is pervasive, creating a safe space for children is a significant challenge. 

The stark divide between rich and poor disproportionately impacts communities and children in slum areas face barriers to their emotional development. Paying special attention to the socio-emotional needs of children from lower economic backgrounds is of utmost importance as they often grow up in hostile environments characterised by substance abuse, violence and gender-based violence—all of which can have lasting negative effects on their emotional growth.

To tackle these challenges and support the socio-emotional needs of these children, tailored frameworks are often necessary to address the specific difficulties faced by children with diverse experiences.

A key step in supporting the socio-emotional well-being of children is to start by identifying and addressing the concerns of their families. This involves asking open-ended questions about social-emotional milestones and intentionally observing interactions between parents and children, as well as how children engage with their environment and themselves. The key is to keep it simple and test the ground waters of a child’s emotional health before going in for the big, bad questions.

The good and the bad

A child’s social and emotional health significantly influences their overall well-being and comprehension of various situations. Research shows that mentally healthy children are generally happier, more motivated to learn and exhibit a positive attitude toward school. They are more likely to engage in classroom activities and achieve higher academic performance compared to their less mentally healthy peers. 

Conversely, children who face social and emotional challenges often struggle to follow directions and participate in learning activities. They are at a greater risk of social rejection, low self-esteem, poor academic performance and even suspension. Therefore, a child’s social and emotional health is equally important as their physical health, as it affects their development and potential to lead a fulfilling life.

What is Socio-emotional Learning?

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is a crucial aspect of human education and mental development. But what exactly is SEL?

Through SEL, children cultivate the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to build healthy identities. It enables young individuals to manage their emotions, set and achieve personal goals, develop empathy and form supportive, healthy relationships.

The various approaches within SEL promote educational equity by fostering genuine partnerships between schools, families, and communities. SEL can help tackle different types of inequity, empowering both young people and adults to collaborate in creating thriving educational environments and contributing to safe, healthy and just communities.

SEL encompasses five core competencies that are essential for the holistic growth of young minds in schools, homes and communities.

These five components focus on self-awareness, social awareness, relationship skills, self-management and responsible decision-making.

These elements of SEL are foundational to addressing a child’s socio-emotional needs. However, SEL is not a separate subject like history or maths; it should be integrated into the overall school curriculum. When educators make academic lessons more personal and relevant to students, it can encourage greater participation and reduce the likelihood of students disengaging mentally. By developing empathy, self-awareness and a sense of safety and inclusivity in the classroom, SEL can create a lasting positive impact.

Additionally, a study published in ResearchGate emphasises the importance of thorough assessments of social-emotional functioning throughout development, highlighting its significant implications for public health from infancy to adulthood. Such assessments can predict and correlate with mental health, academic success, delinquency, substance abuse and workplace performance.

For instance, when children do not successfully navigate developmental milestones related to social-emotional competence, they face increased risks of psychopathology, behavioural issues, poor academic performance, and substance abuse. Conversely, successfully developing these skills is linked to greater resilience in stressful situations.

How Smile Foundation helps in taking care of socio-emotional needs

Meeting the socio-emotional needs of every child, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, is one of the building blocks of a more equitable society. Education is a vital component of this effort. Smile Foundation’s flagship programme, Mission Education, seeks to work along with disadvantaged children by providing them with education, nutrition and wellness support. The programme aligns with the New Education Policy (2020) and Sustainable Development Goal 4 (which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all).

Mission Education focuses on children aged 3 to 18 who face challenging circumstances, including those from impoverished families, differently abled children, children affected by disasters, abandoned and street children, as well as those living in tribal areas, remote villages and hard-to-reach locations.

To partner with us for your education-related CSR project, please drop us a mail: cp@smilefoundationindia.org.

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Insights Smile

Importance of Institutional Grants for NGOs

Institutional Grants for NGOs

Grants are the lifeblood of many nonprofits, providing essential funds that allow organisations like ours to fulfill our missions, expand reach and make a significant impact. These funds come from various entities, including foundations, government agencies and corporations, and they support specific projects, programs or general operations of development organisations. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid, making them an attractive and critical source of funding.

Grants come in several types, each serving different purposes. Program grants are targeted for specific initiatives directly related to the nonprofit’s mission, while operating grants, also known as unrestricted grants, offer general support for overall operations, covering administrative costs, salaries and overhead. Capital grants are used for major expenses such as building renovations or purchasing equipment. Challenge grants and matching grants encourage additional fundraising by requiring nonprofits to match the grant amount through other donations. Each type of grant addresses different needs within an organisation, providing the flexibility and support necessary for sustained operations and growth.

How do grants help NGOs?

The importance of grants in the nonprofit sector cannot be overstated. Firstly, grants provide significant financial stability, allowing nonprofits to plan and execute projects without the constant pressure of fundraising. This stability enables them to focus on their core mission and long-term goals.

Additionally, receiving grants from reputable funders enhances a nonprofit’s credibility and reputation, signaling to other potential donors and stakeholders that the organisation is trustworthy and capable. This trust can lead to further support, creating a virtuous cycle of funding and impact.

Grants also drive innovation and growth by providing the resources needed to experiment with new approaches within the nonprofit’s field. This funding can catalyse growth, allowing the organisation to expand its services and reach more beneficiaries. Capacity building grants are particularly important as they strengthen the nonprofit’s infrastructure by investing in staff training, upgrading technology and improving operational processes. This ultimately leads to a more efficient and effective organisation, better equipped to meet its objectives.

The competition for grants is intense

Finding and securing grants requires strategy and effort. Nonprofits research potential grantmakers such as foundations, government agencies and corporations using resources like Foundation Directory Online, Grants.gov and local community foundation databases. Building relationships with grant officers and funders is crucial as networking can provide insights into funding priorities and improve the chances of a successful application. It is also important to carefully read and follow the application guidelines, providing all required documentation and crafting a compelling narrative that aligns with the funder’s goals.

While grants offer numerous benefits, there are challenges to keep in mind. The grant application process is highly competitive, with many nonprofits vying for the same funds. Some grants come with specific restrictions on how to use funds, limiting flexibility but increasing specificity for the intended use of grants.

Furthermore, grants often require detailed reporting and accountability measures, which can be time-consuming and require meticulous record-keeping. Relying heavily on grants can be risky if the funding is not renewed, making it important for nonprofits to diversify their income streams.

The flow of grants for NGOs from national to grassroots organisations

Comparatively larger nonprofits with a national presence like Smile Foundation receiving substantial grants can play an important role in supporting grassroots organisations by distributing sub-grants. This approach ensures that funds reach smaller organisations working directly with communities, maximising impact at the local level.

By partnering with grassroots organisations, larger nonprofits can leverage their resources and expertise to support localised initiatives, creating a more significant overall impact. This model not only extends the reach of grant funding but also builds a network of collaborative efforts aimed at addressing complex social issues.

Here are five famous grants for NGOs of India

  1. Change the Game Academy (CtGA) – a global alliance to Smile Foundation (one of its co-creators): The CtGA for mentoring and strengthening grassroots initiatives and increase their fundraising and sustainability capacities grants funds to Smile Foundation. 75 per cent of these organisations have expanded their donor base after this much-needed intervention.
  2. Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Grant to PATH: The Gates Foundation awarded a significant grant to PATH, an international nonprofit that has a strong presence in India. This grant focuses on advancing health innovations, particularly in areas such as malaria, pneumonia, and diarrheal disease. PATH uses these funds to implement solutions that improve healthcare delivery and outcomes in low-resource settings across India​.
  3. Google.org Grant to Pratham Education Foundation: Google.org, the charitable arm of Google, provided a substantial grant to Pratham, one of India’s largest NGOs dedicated to improving education quality. This grant supports Pratham’s “Hybrid Learning Program,” which combines digital and in-person learning to enhance educational outcomes for children in underdserved communities​.
  4. Tata Trusts Grant to The Akshaya Patra Foundation: Tata Trusts, one of India’s oldest philanthropic organizations, has granted funds to The Akshaya Patra Foundation, which runs the world’s largest mid-day meal program. This funding helps Akshaya Patra scale its operations to provide nutritious meals to more children across the country, addressing hunger and promoting education simultaneously​.
  5. Ford Foundation Grant to Breakthrough India: The Ford Foundation has awarded grants to Breakthrough India, an NGO working to prevent violence against women and girls. The funding is creates awareness, educate communities and develop programs that promote gender equality and women’s rights​.

Grants for a stronger impact

By understanding the different types of grants, developing strong proposals and building relationships with funders, nonprofits can effectively leverage grant funding to achieve their goals. Despite the challenges, the benefits of securing grants extend beyond financial support, offering opportunities for credibility, networking, innovation and long-term sustainability.

In a world where the demand for nonprofit services continues to grow, grants remain a cornerstone of organisational success and community development. ​​These grants are instrumental in enabling NGOs to scale their operations, innovate solutions and have a broader impact on the communities they serve.

For queries related to forging grant partnerships with Smile Foundation, interested funders can contact at eg@smilefoundationindia.org.

Categories
Livelihood

Difference between Disguised Unemployment and Seasonal Unemployment

Difference between Disguised Unemployment and Seasonal Unemployment

That unemployment is a major concern for any country, including India, is not a matter of question. However, understanding how unemployment manifests itself can go a long way in dealing with the problem and coming up with effective solutions. India is a big country with more than 1.4 billion people. A vast majority of this population is employable because the country is the youngest in the world. However, a massive unorganised labour market has two distinct threads that stand out: disguised unemployment and seasonal unemployment. It is crucial for policymakers to understand these nuances to craft necessary solutions that may help in reducing unemployment.

Let’s look at these in detail.

Disguised Unemployment

Disguised unemployment exists when part of the labour force is either left without work or is working in a redundant manner, resulting in essentially zero worker productivity. To understand this, let us look at an example. Let’s say that workers are required in a biscuit manufacturing unit. To support the demand, there’s a need for 100 workers who can effectively complete the work on time. However, the employer hires 150 workers for the same job. What will happen now?

Either the extra 50 people will have no work to do, or less work will be allocated to all the workers to adjust for this surplus labour. So, disguised unemployment does not affect aggregate economic output. However, it also does not increase productivity. Thereby, leading to waste of human resources. Developing countries with big populations usually have to deal with this problem of disguised unemployment because their workforce keeps expanding while the job opportunities do not grow in tandem with it.

One way of dealing with this problem is to encourage the individuals to acquire diverse skills so that they can contribute to other tasks. It may also help in creating new opportunities for the workers. At the same time, policymakers should focus on promoting entrepreneurship, especially small businesses as they have the potential to create jobs for a large population.

Seasonal Unemployment

It is when jobs are available only during a specific time period in a year. Let’s say you work as a paragliding pilot in the Himalayas. Now, it is highly likely that you will only have work available to you during some months in the entire year when the weather conditions are favourable for flights. This means that for the rest of the year you will either have no work or have to find something else to do which may not be your core skill. This problem of seasonal unemployment is found in a number of industries and sectors which gives rise to uncertainty among the workers and creates dependency on making a year’s worth of wages in a short time. Therefore, many communities engaged in such seasonal employment sometimes have to struggle when the incomes are not as per expectations during the work season.

Again, what can help in this situation is diversification of skills and creating new work opportunities for the people. If there are options beyond what is available to them, people can engage themselves in other work when they are available. Also, entrepreneurship serves as a major solution to this problem as well. For example, the paragliding pilot may decide to open a small business like running a homestay or an eatery to make up for the lack of employment during some months in the year.

India’s Challenge

Despite overall improvements in labour force participation and employment rates, employment conditions in India remain poor. India’s youth account for almost 83% of the unemployed workforce. The share of educated youth (with secondary or higher education) in the total unemployed has almost doubled from 35.2% in 2000 to 65.7% in 2022. Disguised unemployment often manifests as stagnant or declining wages, increased self-employment among women, and a higher proportion of unpaid family work among youth.

According to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), the unemployment rate in India stood at 9.2% in June 2024. Seasonal unemployment is tied to cyclical industries such as agriculture, tourism, and retail. During peak seasons, jobs are available, but they vanish during off-seasons.

Both disguised unemployment and seasonal unemployment are complex problems to deal with. Also, because these problems are highly localised and work-specific, it is important for policymakers to take a nuanced approach when creating solutions. In the end, workers’ benefits should be kept in mind. By weaving policies that address both, we can create a stronger, more resilient fabric for India’s workforce.

Smile Foundation and Employment of Youth

Smile Foundation has partnered with Amazon to establish 21st-century learning labs, equipping skilling centers with digital devices to enhance their capabilities. By collaborating with industry experts in skill development and vocational training, such as NIIT Foundation, Wadhwani Foundation, and Tata Strive, Smile Foundation has effectively implemented curriculums in core employability skills, BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance), GDA (General Duty Assistant), and Digital Marketing. These partnerships ensure our training programs align with industry standards, providing students with the essential skills needed for employment. Additionally, we have focused on building strong relationships with employers to facilitate job placements for our trained candidates. Our alliances with companies like Team Lease, Quess Corp, and Better Place support the successful placement of skilled youth into the workforce.

Categories
Skill Development

Job-oriented training programmes in higher education

The Employability Puzzle: Educated but Unprepared for Work
The Employability Puzzle: Educated but Unprepared for Work

Students pursuing higher education often jest or express genuine concern at some point, saying, “This degree won’t guarantee me a job!” This sentiment, whether humorous or earnest, reflects a common awareness among students about the challenges they may encounter when transitioning from education to employment.

One of the significant issues contributing to this challenge is the lack of emphasis on skill development within academic programs. As a result, there remains a noticeable gap between what students learn in educational settings and the practical skills demanded by employers. This mismatch often leads to stress and apprehension among graduates who find themselves unprepared to pursue suitable job opportunities upon completing their studies. 

In a 2023 paper by Deeksha Chaurasia and Punnam Veeriah published in the Indian Journal of Vocational Education, the authors emphasise that as India becomes a ‘knowledge economy,’ there is a growing imperative to prioritise skilling the youth. These skills must be directly relevant to the changing economic landscape. Given how the job market lately has become extremely dynamic, employers across the globe seek candidates who possess not only academic knowledge but also practical skills aligned with current industry needs. This shift underscores the critical importance of aligning educational outcomes with the evolving demands of the economy to ensure graduates are well-prepared and competitive in the workforce.

During discussions on the budget earlier this month, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the government’s commitment to skill development. She emphasised that the establishment of 3,000 new Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) is underway. This initiative aims to strengthen vocational training and create abundant opportunities for youth to acquire skills relevant to various industries.

How are we doing in skilling of youth when compared to other countries?

In fact, over the past decade, a series of studies have advanced the discussion on skilling the youth . For example, Arora and Chhadwani’s 2019 research, titled, ‘Analysing the impact of Skill India as a tool for reshaping the Indian economy’, highlighted the critical need for effective implementation of the Skill India Mission to boost momentum. The report outlines that currently, India faces a significant shortage of trained workforce, with only 2.3 per cent having received formal skill training, in stark contrast to other countries like South Korea, Japan, Germany, and the United Kingdom, among others. This underscores the urgent requirement to prioritise skill development and ensure the successful execution of the Skill India Mission.

The mission to skilling of youth

The National Education Policy echoes the same sentiment of integrating education with skill development. It recognises that rapid technological advancements, including Artificial Intelligence, automation and robotics, are reshaping industries, creating a demand for a flexible and skilled workforce. Consequently, there is this pressing need to enhance the capacity of India’s education and skill sectors to meet these evolving demands and enhance employability.

Additionally, while emerging technologies offer opportunities for various industries, there is also apprehension about potential job displacement. This is another reason why striking a balance between imparting skills and traditional education is crucial. This balance not only facilitates the adoption of new-age technologies but also ensures that these advancements contribute to increased employment rather than displacement.

An article in the Financial Times proposes that Higher Education Institutes could serve as pivotal centres for cultivating expertise in AI and related fields. By incorporating technology-focused training programmes in the curriculum, such institutes have the opportunity to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills required to excel in an evolving job market. This proactive approach ensures that students are adequately prepared for emerging job trends, thereby sustaining the competitiveness of the workforce in an AI-driven future.

The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), under the Skill India mission, is actively pursuing several initiatives to generate opportunities for youth. The key initiatives include the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), which emphasises on-the-job training and industry partnerships. It also offers contemporary courses in coding, AI, robotics, drones as well as the development of soft skills. As of October 2023, PMKVY has successfully trained 14 million candidates across 2,640 training centres, according to official records.

What else?

Another significant initiative is the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme-2 (NAPS-2), which aims to promote apprenticeship training nationwide. It has engaged 42,453 unique establishments in apprenticeship programs. Most importantly, the Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS)– implemented through NGOs— has been focusing on providing vocational training to non-literates, neo-literates, and school dropouts in rural areas. JSS identifies local market-relevant skills to support the growth of local trades and create new opportunities. As of October 2023, 288 JSS centres have successfully trained 2.1 million candidates. 

These initiatives collectively aim to bolster skilling the youth across various sectors and regions, crucially contributing to the socio-economic growth of the country. However, there remains a pressing need for further action in a nation striving to employ a workforce of 500 million people.

Our work to skill and place youth from slums and villages of India

Smile Foundation has been contributing to this cause by preparing less-privileged youngsters from slums across India to enter the current job market successfully. Through our vocational education programme tailored for girls from remote rural areas, we empower them with skills for careers in sectors such as retail management, digital marketing, business process outsourcing, and healthcare, among others.

As of 2022-23, we have trained over 10,000 young individuals, with more than 6,000 securing placements in various jobs. In addition, our initiative “iTrain on Wheels” has upskilled over 90,000 painters, expanding their opportunities for diverse employment. These efforts reflect our commitment to equipping marginalised communities with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in the workforce.

We are looking forward to expanding our presence in the skilling landscape by forging new CSR partnerships. If you are a socially conscious organisation with deep interests in a skilled workforce, please contact us here and know more about our skilling and livelihood initiatives. 

Categories
Education

Quality Education for Our Youngest

Quality Education for Our Youngest
Quality Education for Our Youngest

Do you know that the early childhood days, typically the period from birth through eight years old, are extremely crucial in an individual’s life? Before the next question arises in your mind, I will tell you why. According to studies, a child’s brain undergoes rapid and extensive development during their early childhood. Their neural connections, which are formed at a high pace, are directly influenced by their experiences, environment and interactions.

While positive stimuli support the development of efficient neural connections, adverse experiences would hinder brain development and create long-term consequences. Upon utilising this period effectively, children would be bestowed with opportunities to shape their cognitive functions like language acquisition, memory power and problem-solving abilities. This is why early child education becomes the most important.

Early child education

It is nothing but the quality education, both formal and informal, that children receive before entering the primary school, i.e., from birth till their eighth year. Since whatever the child undergoes during this period plays a crucial role in their life and has a long-term consequence, it is essential to provide quality early child education to promote significant physical, cognitive, emotional and social growth. This in turn will lay the foundation for future learning, behaviour and health outcomes.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has developed a framework for facilitating international comparisons of education systems and qualifications—the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED). The framework has included early child education under ISCED level 0. Its primary goal is to promote children’s social skills, language development, early literacy and numeracy, creativity and physical well-being through play-based learning and structured activities.

Components of early child education

Education, just like everything else, should be provided in appropriation with age. That’s why it is important to consider numerous factors and implement various techniques in early child education. Below are some of the effective ways to provide quality education to our youngest.

  1. Play-based learning: Play is a natural and essential activity through which children will explore, experiment, discover and make sense of the world. That’s why play is central to early child education. Through play-based learning, one can support holistic development, including problem-solving, critical thinking, self-regulation, empathy and gross motor and fine motor skills of children. In addition, the play-based learning will allow the children to make choices, take small risks, and exert control over their experiences. This freedom will in turn enhance their confidence and ability to function independently.
  2. Developmentally appropriate practices: Grounded in research and understanding of child development theories, these practices act as a guiding principle for educators. For developmentally appropriate practices tailor suits the educational experiences to match the children’s age, developmental stage, individual needs, and cultural background. The practice is aligned with children’s physical, emotional, social and linguistic capabilities. This approach lets the children learn and grow at their own pace by responding to and supporting their developmental milestones.
  3. Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN): Without focusing only on the academic outcomes, foundational skills in literacy and numeracy should be taught to the children. FLN refers to the basic skills in reading, writing and mathematics. It in turn means the children’s ability to read, understand and write basic alphabets and numbers. It also means, children can perform simple mathematical operations like addition and subtraction and apply them in their daily life. For these foundational literacy and numeracy skills lay the foundation for future academic success and create a lifelong love for learning. Some of the strategies to promote early literacy are reading aloud, storytelling and retelling, phonological awareness and print awareness.

Early child education in India

Understanding the crucial role of early child education in a child’s lifelong learning and development, the Indian government has been taking numerous steps not just to implement it but also to enhance it constantly. One such initiative is the implementation of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme, now renamed Anganwadi services. The objective of the scheme is to provide holistic early childhood care, including education, nutrition, and health check-ups in underserved areas. According to the Poshan tracker, the country has about 13.99 lakh Anganwadi centres in 764 districts implementing 7,205 projects.

The centre benefits about 10.03 crore people, including 38 lakh children aged below six months, 4.08 crore children aged between six months and three years, and 4.44 crore children aged between three and six years. At these centres, children till 6 years would be provided early education, nutritious meals, health care and other immunisation services. They also play a vital role in mobilising community participation and conducting awareness campaigns.

Smile Foundation’s role

Known for our contribution in the field of education for children from marginalised communities for more than 20 years, Smile Foundation has been working closely with children aged between three and 18 years. With the sole objective of empowering these kids, our Mission Education programme is well aligned to the New Educational Policy (NEP 2020) and SDG Goal 4, which advocates for ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

We have been following its 4-pronged approach—

  • improving learning outcomes,
  • capacity building of teachers,
  • enabling learning environments
  • and community engagement

—to support the children and 1.2 lakh children have received quality education with our CSR interventions.

In our journey towards creating a concrete foundation for the youngest, we have been transforming Anganwadis to model Anganwadis to provide a safe and appropriate environment for the children. We attempt to introduce a technology-driven approach in early child education to make learning effective and engaging. Not just that, we insist on community partnership and ensuring the participation of local communities in the success of the centres. We also put consistent efforts into creating a robust early learning framework that works 100% in favour of the children’s development.

Know more about partnering with us for educating children through a CSR project here.

Categories
Education

What is the role of education in human capital formation?

What is the role of education in human capital formation?
What is the role of education in human capital formation?

Whether you are building an organisation or a nation, what is most essential for you is human capital. It is through the knowledge, skills and abilities of individuals that organisations and nations develop. Human capital is a crucial factor for both personal as well as societal growth. For example, a nation with high-quality human capability is likely to have more creative expression which can add to its overall growth.

Now, to cultivate and enhance this human capital, the best tool that we have is education. It is only through quality education that we can impart necessary skills in people so that they can enable societal growth. This is especially true for a country like India which has a large human capital. If India wants to reap the benefits of having a huge human capital, it needs to invest heavily in education.

So, exactly what’s the role of education in human capital formation?

The foundational knowledge

Most formative time for any individual is their childhood years. It is during this time that a strong foundation for lifelong learning and growth can be set. Quality preschool programmes lay the foundation for cognitive, social and emotional development. These early experiences shape a child’s future learning trajectory. This is why we need access to high-quality schools, colleges and universities for our population because that is where they receive structured education.

Not just academic knowledge, but individuals also learn critical thinking and discipline in these institutions. Formal education equips individuals with the tools needed to navigate the complexities of the modern world. And then, one must always remember that in today’s fast-changing world, education does not just stop after one graduates from a college. It is, instead, a lifelong process. Lifelong learning—through workshops, online courses and continuous skill development—ensures that human capital remains relevant and adaptable throughout life.

Role of education in individual talent and capabilities

Imagine you are participating in a contest, and you have to find people to be a part of your team. Let’s say the contest is about ideating and launching a business. What kind of individuals will you look for? It is highly likely that you will try to find a diverse pool of talented and capable individuals to join your time. You may need someone who understands marketing, someone who knows product design and someone who is good at social media.

This is a good example of how human capital works. If you need a quality human capital for a contest, imagine the kind of difference talented and capable individuals can make for an economy. And the best way to nurture these diverse talents is through education. It can be formal education, informal education, or a combination of both. Whether it’s artistic creativity, scientific curiosity or entrepreneurial acumen, schools and colleges provide platforms for students to explore and develop their unique abilities.

At the same time, skill acquisition, upskilling and reskilling are central to developing human capital in today’s world. Skills such as programming, communication, problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, etc., are constantly evolving today because of the rapid changes in technology. Therefore, a good human capital can only be sustained through constant upskilling and reskilling of individuals.

Lastly, we cannot forget the role of education in empowering women by breaking down barriers and promoting gender equality. Educated women contribute significantly to family well-being, community development and economic growth. Also, as we educate more and more women, we increase the pool of human talent.

Beyond academic knowledge

As mentioned before, skill-building and talent is not just about academic knowledge, but it is also associated with factors such as emotional intelligence, ethical values and much more. Sports, arts and extracurricular activities contribute to a well-rounded personality. Therefore, we cannot forget the role these activities play in creating a diverse human talent pool.

Similarly, schools and colleges bring together students from diverse backgrounds. Interacting with peers from different cultures, religions and socioeconomic strata fosters empathy, tolerance and social cohesion. This, in turn, allows the individuals to work together with better coordination and show stronger results.

Economic impact

One of the biggest benefits of an educated human capital is the economic growth that comes out of it. Skilled and educated individuals are more productive and they are more likely to possess other qualities like leadership skills, teamwork, etc. Therefore, they can also act as strong guides for others. At the same time, education is also the pathway to earning higher income and breaking social barriers.

With these advancements, individuals can attain financial stability and invest their money in improving the lives of people around them. Also, longer schooling years provide the basic capacity to learn new skills. Education equips individuals with the ability to adapt to changing job markets and technological advancements.

Global context

Across the globe, nations continue to invest in their human capital because it pays dividends in the form of economic and social growth. Not just that, countries also try to ensure that their human capital does not leave to take citizenship of any other nation. This is because losing highly-capable individuals means losing opportunities of growth. That is why nations try to create a favourable environment for talented individuals to start new businesses, find better jobs or ensure upward mobility for themselves. Throughout history, education has been a catalyst for societal transformation. From the Renaissance to the Industrial Revolution, educated individuals have driven progress.

Collective future

So, as we understand, education is not just about passing exams; it is about shaping lives and building human capital. As we strive to create a better country and world, we must recognise the role that education plays in this process. By investing in education, we invest in our collective future—one where human capital flourishes, bridges gaps and propels us toward prosperity.

What did Smile Foundation do in the year 2022-23?

  1. 405 Mission Education Centres – Early Childhood Education to Senior Secondary Education for underserved children between 3 to 18 years of age.
  2. 12 Government Collaboration Projects – Support government education infrastructure and teacher training initiatives to improve learning outcomes of children.
  3. 44,000+ girls supported under vocational education – Quality improvement and system strengthening interventions to promote and support in-school vocational education
  4. 2000+ scholarships for completing schooling and higher education – Scholarships for deserving students at school level and after school for vocational courses and technical courses like engineering
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