Education for children from quarry communities in the Jodhpur area
The GRAVIS sub-project is aimed at the children of quarry workers in western Rajasthan, particularly in the region around Jodhpur, where sandstone is mined. In this region, serious health problems, malnutrition and frequent work accidents characterize the everyday life of the miners, while their children are confronted with limited educational opportunities and precarious living conditions. GRAVIS addresses these challenges and aims to sustainably break the vicious circle of poverty and lack of education by expanding educational opportunities and health care.
A particular focus is on increasing the literacy rate, reducing the school dropout rate – especially among girls – and promoting increased health awareness. In order to achieve these goals, the Village Development Committee (VDC) is included in the initiative, which as a local body creates the necessary framework for a supportive educational environment.
Measures to improve access to education
To implement these goals, four schools were founded for the children of quarry workers. These schools are
- Adarsh Khan Majdoor School
- Gogoliyo ki Dhani School
- Adarsh Khan Majdoor Bal Vikas School
- Adarsh Khan Majdoor School in Shivpura Siyada
These facilities provide children with improved access to education that overcomes the financial hurdles faced by families. All necessary learning materials, including books, stationery and sports equipment, are provided free of charge. Classes are held in an environment that promotes a fun, creative and interactive learning atmosphere through regular children’s assemblies. The integration of on-site first aid stations and the waiver of tuition fees ensure that education remains accessible without additional financial burdens. In addition, sports and games activities are also intensively promoted to support physical health and strengthen the team spirit of the students.
Health checks and awareness building
Another key component of the GRAVIS program is regular health check camps, where the children’s vital parameters – such as BMI, height, weight, eyesight and hearing – are checked. These examinations make it possible to identify health deficiencies, particularly anemia as a result of poor nutrition, at an early stage and to take targeted action against them. Doctors and teachers educate parents and members of the VDC about the importance of a balanced diet and make them aware of the children’s health needs. This is intended to reduce long-term health risks and sustainably improve the children’s quality of life.
Pedagogical Support and School Life
The GRAVIS project works closely with government teachers, health officials and other local stakeholders to implement a holistic approach to education. Regular attendance checks and active involvement of the local community have resulted in a dynamic school environment in which children thrive both academically and socially. Participation in fun, creative teaching methods and the organization of extracurricular activities not only promote academic performance, but also the development of self-confidence and future prospects. Many children who learn in this environment now dream of careers beyond quarry work and aspire to work as teachers, doctors, police officers, soldiers or government officials.
The project is financed by generous donations from BILD hilft e.V. „Ein Herz für Kinder”