Dhanbad: Faculty members from the Department of Management Studies and Industrial Engineering at IIT-ISM visited the Eklavya Model Residential Girl’s School (EMRS) in Kujra, Lohardaga district, Jharkhand, as part of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs’ ongoing capacity-building training program in advanced-level information technology and computer training.
Led by Professor Rashmi Singh, Assistant Professor and Coordinator of the Center of Excellence for Tribal Development, the faculty team engaged with approximately 200 tribal girl students from classes X, XI, and XII. They highlighted the significant advantages of computer training in today’s competitive career landscape, emphasizing its role in securing future employment opportunities.
During the visit, Professor Niladri Das, Associate Professor, and other team members gathered feedback from the students regarding the online training sessions that commenced on July 1, 2024. Amrita Mishra, the school’s Principal, and Manju Kumari, the Computer Teacher, highlighted the enthusiastic participation of students in the classes since the program’s inception earlier this year.
Professor Rashmi Singh elaborated on the program’s structure, explaining that it spans a year and includes both online and hybrid modes of instruction. She emphasized the provision of reading materials in Hindi for the basic level program and noted the availability of materials in Santhali, the predominant tribal language in EMRS schools, stocked in the school library for student reference.
“The students receive two theory classes and four practical sessions weekly from institute experts,” Professor Singh explained, underscoring the regular assignments given to assess comprehension.
She emphasized close coordination with EMRS school ICT teachers and outlined plans for physical visits by institute experts to conduct problem-solving sessions, part of the holistic educational approach.
The advanced IT and computer training initiative is currently operational in seven EMRS locations, including EMRS Kathijoria, EMRS Godda, EMRS Ranchi, EMRS Kujra (Lohardaga), EMRS Dumka, EMRS West Singhbhum, and EMRS Bhogandih, facilitated by IIT (ISM)’s Center of Excellence for tribal development.
The visit by IIT (ISM) faculty members underscores their commitment to empowering tribal students through accessible and practical education in emerging technologies, aiming to foster greater career opportunities and digital literacy among marginalized communities.
