Sonebhadra to get Eklavya schools

A scheme of the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs,the Eklavya Model Residential Schools aim at providing quality education to children from tribal areas,besides coaching them in vocational education.

There are two types of Eklavya Schools — EMRS primary schools and EMRS feeder schools. While the primary schools are till Class VIII,the feeder schools provide education till Class XII with specialised coaching for medical and engineering entrance examinations. So far,there is one EMRS in Lakhimpur Kheri district,supporting Tharu tribal children.

According to the Centre’s guidelines,the school complex should be situated in 10 acres of land,housing not more than 600 students. Apart from providing Rs 12 crore for the construction of the school and Rs 12 to 22 lakh for the upkeep and maintenance,the Centre also funds scholarships for ST students enrolled in these or other schools.

Sonebhadra District Magistrate Pandhari Yadav said: “This scheme can change the face of education in this district. We plan to have schools till Class XII and also provide specific guidance for vocational education. We will also give some vocational training to students above Class VIII.”

The district administration has already identified 10 acres of land in Chopan block of the district and a Detailed Project Report has been submitted to the Centre. “We have completed all formalities from our side and are now waiting for a green signal from the Centre,” said Prem Narayan,Principal Secretary (Social Welfare).