In a bid to promote social mobility and career advancement among underrepresented Indian school students, the University of Melbourne has joined forces with community and government partners in Andhra Pradesh for an expansive Schools Engagement Program.
Aimed at students in grades 9-12, the program integrates into the curriculum modules rooted in positive psychology and coaching. It will benefit over 50,000 students in the state, according to a release shared by the university .
The initiative seeks to empower students by helping them understand themselves and explore potential career paths beneficial to both their personal growth and their communities. Furthermore, the program will equip students with the skills to make informed decisions and plans for their future.
In colllaboration with the Government of Andhra Pradesh, Department of School Education, Rotary International Districts in Zone 7, Rotary India Literacy Mission, and Samaghra Shiksha, Andhra Pradesh, the university is supporting the program’s expansion. Global Education Solutions is tasked with delivering the program.
Since its launch in 2019, the program has made significant strides, reaching 8,237 students, supporting 178 teachers, and engaging approximately 15,000 parents, care providers, and guardians. The program has been implemented in ten schools in Pune and nine schools in Madurai, showcasing its positive impact across different regions.
Professor Michael Wesley, deputy vice-chancellor (global, culture and engagement) at the University of Melbourne, expressed pride in the institution’s commitment to innovative educational solutions in India. He highlighted the program’s profound and enduring impact, particularly on disadvantaged girls, emphasizing the importance of replicating its success in as many schools as possible.
“The Schools Engagement Program is one of the most important partnerships we have piloted in India,” Professor Wesley stated. “It helps local students, and their parents and guardians, explore what is possible in their future careers as we expand the program from 8,000 to a projected 50,000 by the end of 2024.”
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