Education To Children Of Waste Collectors

MARI has played a crucial role in executing this project by addressing the educational challenges faced by children of waste collectors in non-notified slums. Through the establishment of preschool/childcare centers, MARI has ensured that young children receive foundational learning, preparing them for formal schooling. The organization has also provided supplementary coaching to support academic recovery and prevent dropouts. By facilitating Aadhar card registration, MARI has helped children access government schooling and essential services. Additionally, the organization has strengthened community involvement through parent meetings and awareness programs, ensuring sustainable educational support. With a focus on holistic development, MARI has also integrated nutrition support, extracurricular activities, and innovative teaching methods, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive education for marginalized communities.

Objectives

Ensure minimum learning skills to 30-50 children below 5 years in two non-notified slums through a preschool/Child Care Center (Anganwadi).
Ensure essential support systems in targeted three slums to enable the children to recover from the learning loss to prevent the risks of lowering academic performance & prevent eventual dropouts.

"Empowering the children of waste collectors through education, inclusion, and community support—ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and build a brighter future."

Achievements

About 85 children of waste collectors have been provided access to preschool learning facilities, giving them a strong foundation for early education.
25 families received a free supply of ‘take-home ration’ every month, ensuring their nutritional needs are met.
Children of waste collectors were assisted in obtaining Aadhar cards, a crucial step for government school admissions.
120 children in three slums of waste collectors received supplementary coaching to support their academic learning and address educational challenges.
Enrollment efforts resulted in 27 children entering primary schools and 28 moving into high schools, improving their educational opportunities.
11 children who had previously dropped out of primary school were successfully readmitted, helping them continue their education.
Teaching and Learning Materials (TLM) created by an additional teacher won 1st Prize among 45 participating schools at the District-Level TLM event.
Two special tutors were employed in three slums to provide targeted support to 80 identified children, helping them recover from learning losses.

Goals

Project staff have organized community-level meetings and supported parent meetings in government schools, contributing to improved enrollment and prevention of dropouts. Science exhibits were conducted on key topics such as the Food Pyramid & Nutritious Food, crops grown in Telangana under different climatic conditions, and the Solar System & the Water Cycle. In collaboration with the Aqriti Foundation, MARI staff provided training to children at evening tuition centers, focusing on academic subjects and overall development. Additionally, 58 children participated enthusiastically in the 10K/5K Run organized by the Hyderabad Runners Association on 18th December 2022.

“By fostering inclusion and empowerment, MARI continues to pave the way for a future where every child has the chance to thrive.”