As part of its ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, metal cutting expert Sandvik Coromant has inaugurated its fourth Green School Project, marking a significant step in enhancing rural education. In collaboration with voluntary organisation Shramik Sahayog, this project benefits children from the rural area of Kolkewadi, Chiplun. The initiative includes the establishment of digital classrooms, installation of solar lights, creation of a library, infrastructure enhancement, and provision of learning aids.
The inauguration of the fourth Green School Project by Sandvik Coromant India highlights their commitment to improving education and infrastructure at Prayogbhumi, an educational learning center initiated by Shramik Sahayog. Founded in the 1980s, Shramik Sahayog is a registered organisation dedicated to advancing rural education.
Prayogbhumi Learning Center, registered and acknowledged by the National Institution of Open Schooling (NIOS), is making significant strides in strengthening education for young people from the rural area of Chiplun in Maharashtra. Through the Green School Project, Sandvik Coromant has supported the implementation of digital education by equipping students with educational software and access to educational TV programs, which can run offline without an internet connection.
To further enrich the development of the children and improve access to educational resources, a hanging library with more than 150 books has been installed, along with solar streetlights to ensure safety when accessing the center during the evening. Additionally, recognizing the importance of nutrition and hygiene, the kitchen infrastructure has been overhauled to provide a clean and functional space.
The Center was inaugurated by Ms. Vaishali Surve, SMS Regional Compliance Officer for South Asia at Sandvik Coromant, Mr. Pralhad Jadhav, PU Manager for Recycling Unit and Plant Operations at Sandvik Coromant, the CSR team from Sandvik Coromant India, and the Chiplun Management team. The children and staff of the Prayogbhumi Learning Center were also in attendance.
“The Prayogbhumi Learning Center has become a beacon of hope for rural children from this area,” said Vaishali Surve, SMS Regional Compliance Officer for South Asia at Sandvik Coromant. “It provides essential resources and infrastructure to empower children from the tribal community, who otherwise miss out on equal opportunities to education.”
“Every child is entitled to an educational environment that paves the way for their boundless possibilities,” added Kiran Acharya, MD and CFO at Sandvik Coromant India. “This collaboration with Shramik Sahayog demonstrates a significant stride towards providing exceptional education to all children — aligning with Sandvik Coromant’s Sustainable Development Goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. Every child has the right to education and this is a clear example of how CSR initiatives can provide underprivileged communities with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.”
The initiative underscores Sandvik Coromant’s dedication to fostering sustainable development and community engagement. By leveraging its resources and expertise, the company is playing a crucial role in transforming educational landscapes in rural India, thus contributing to the broader goal of social equity and empowerment through education.