Corporate Social Responsibility activities by companies have brought about several changes in nearly 30 government schools here in the last one year.
There are more number of computers, benches, desks, cupboards and cleaner toilets, and drinking water facilities in these schools.
For instance, at the Government Higher Secondary School at Kovilpalayam the toilet has been renovated, there are new classrooms, book shelves and even UPS back-up.
R. Subbulakshmi, headmistress of the school, says, “We have 914 students and 40 staff. The school infrastructure has improved, thanks to CSR by one company. The school has a first-aid box, sports materials, and is able to introduce club activities.”
According to S. Raja, manager – CSR of CRI Pumps, the company takes up CSR activities in schools to bridge the gap in infrastructure between the government and private schools.
CRI Pumps has adopted 100 government schools across the country, including nine in the city. “We provide them with uniform materials such as belts, rank badges, and tie, identify slow learners and give them separate coaching, have appointed security personnel, and trainers for sports activities,” says Mr. Raja.
“We paint all the boards green because, it is dust-free, glare-free and strain-free for the eye. Thirukural is written all over the school compound walls,” he adds.
However, less than one-third of the government schools in the city have benefited from CSR. An official of the School Education Department says the district has 148 schools and 30 have CSR support.
At the Government Higher Secondary School at Kuniamuthur, which has 1,400 students, there is no CSR support yet. It needs more computers, restrooms, and support for extra-curricular activities. “If we get financial support from businesses, we want to raise the height of the compound wall and the level of the play ground,” says I. Aloysius James, headmaster of the school.
N. Arulmurugan, Chief Education Officer of Coimbatore, says, normally companies identify the schools based on location and requirement. The basic amenities that they provide include restrooms, library, computers, laboratory, benches, desks, and fans.
In the case of schools that do not receive CSR Support, Mr. Arulmurugan says the department prepares a list and sends it to the State Government for budgetary allocation.
The priority will be according to the number of students, school profile, and facilities available. The funds come from various government schemes, agencies and organisations.
“If a school needs to be upgraded, the head of the school submits a request and companies that come forward to support it will be guided to contact the school,” he says.
The district administration plans to conduct a meeting regarding CSR activities in the government schools.