On the occasion of International Education Day, Marico Limited, a leading FMCG company in India, celebrates the achievements of its flagship initiative, Nihar Shanti Pathshala Funwala (NSPF). This program is dedicated to empowering teachers and students across underserved regions by focusing on teacher upskilling, innovative teaching resources, and leveraging technology for accessible education.
Impact of NSPF: Empowering Teachers and Students Nationwide
Over the past year, NSPF has trained over 1.76 lakh teachers, positively impacting the education of 15 lakh students in four states: Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Rajasthan. By addressing the unique challenges faced by teachers in remote areas, the program has transformed foundational learning and numeracy in government schools.
Key Initiatives and Achievements:
- Teacher Training and Support:
- Madhya Pradesh witnessed the highest participation of government teachers and students.
- NSPF’s educational content was broadcast on DD-MP, extending its reach to a wider audience.
- Curriculum Integration:
- In Chhattisgarh, NSPF collaborated with the state to enhance business language proficiency for Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed) students and pre-service teachers by integrating it into their curriculum.
- Digital Expansion in Jharkhand:
- NSPF partnered with the state government to implement its program in schools.
- Content was uploaded to the Government Diksha portal, enabling online learning across the state.
- Empowering Women in Rajasthan:
- The Teacher Entrepreneur Program in Alwar equips rural women with certifications in business language proficiency, enabling them to start tuition centers and take on part-time teaching roles.
Leveraging Technology for Educational Excellence
NSPF has embraced digital innovation to enhance learning outcomes and accessibility:
- WhatsApp Enterprise-Based Learning:
- Over 25 million high-speed messages (HSMs) were sent to teachers in FY24, with 90% being utility messages, providing structured updates and resources.
- Saturday Story Sessions:
- A YouTube-based program to enhance reading, listening, and comprehension skills, garnering 5.8 lakh views and 36,000 subscribers.
- Online Classroom Visits:
- Real-time solutions to teachers’ challenges during classroom visits improve teaching effectiveness and student outcomes.
CSR Initiative Driving Systemic Change
NSPF operates in 50 districts under India’s Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP), focusing on improving the quality of education in underdeveloped regions. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Amit Bhasin, Chief Legal Officer and Secretary of the CSR Committee at Marico Limited, stated:
“Through our flagship CSR initiative, Nihar Shanti Pathshala Funwala, we aim to uplift underserved communities by enhancing the skills of government school teachers and improving the educational experiences of students. Embracing digital solutions allows us to bridge gaps and reach even the remotest areas, shaping a brighter future for educators and students.”
NSPF’s Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, NSPF plans to expand its footprint further, leveraging innovative digital learning solutions and strengthening collaborations with state governments, educators, and stakeholders. By continuing its efforts, NSPF is poised to make a lasting impact on the education sector in India, driving systemic change and promoting excellence in education.
