Empowering Communities through Education: Puri Oil Mills Limited’s CSR Initiative

Introduction

Education is a powerful tool in shaping a brighter future for individuals and communities alike. Understanding the significance of education, Puri Oil Mills Limited has a strong commitment to prioritizing education as a key aspect of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) endeavors, channeled through our dedicated CSR arm, Ek ki Taaqat. Our company recently funded the Lokuttara Leadership Academy, a learning community located in Kerala. This academy is dedicated to providing education to youth from marginalized communities with a particular focus on empowering girls. The academy is a program by Blossom Projects, a non-profit organization that aims to empower Dalit and tribal youth in Kerala through education, building core skills, leadership, and employment. Through this initiative, we aim to foster a brighter tomorrow and bridge the gap in education access for underprivileged children.

Education: A Cornerstone of Puri Oil Mills’ CSR Initiatives

Education lies at the core of our CSR philosophy. We firmly believe that by investing in education, we can uplift communities and drive lasting change. To create an equitable society where Dalits have access to quality education, we chose to support the Lokuttara Leadership Academy. The Lokuttara Leadership Academy is an educational institution situated in Mavelikara, at the heart of Kerala’s Alappuzha district, a state renowned for its rich cultural heritage and diverse community. The academy is the result of a program by Blossom Projects, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering marginalized communities in India. Blossom Projects’ mission is to empower youth and their families in economically and socially marginalized communities through education, core skill building, leadership, and employment.

“At Puri Oil Mills Limited, we believe in a comprehensive approach to Corporate Social Responsibility, one that extends its reach far and wide, and goes beyond the geographical and cultural boundaries. By supporting the Lokuttara Leadership Academy in Kerala, we’re not just investing in education; we’re empowering marginalized communities, with a special focus on nurturing the potential of girls. Education is central to bridging gaps, and through this initiative, we are committed to creating a brighter, more inclusive future.” Ms. Tejasvini Puri, Director, Puri Oil Mills Limited

2023-2024 batch of Blossom Students

Step Towards a Better Tomorrow

The CSR funding provided by Puri Oil Mills’ was utilized to address two critical aspects of education for marginalized children: personal hygiene for girls and access to modern teaching aids.

a. Personal Hygiene Products for Girls: A Step towards Dignity and Empowerment The initiative included providing personal hygiene products to the girl students at the academy. This step aimed to remove one of the barriers that hindered the girl child’s participation in education. By ensuring access to essential hygiene products, the company not only helped the girls maintain their dignity but also empowered them to attend school regularly with confidence.

“At times, the girls find themselves without sanitary napkins when required. Managing the needs of 15 girls posed considerable challenges for us. I believe that this hygiene kit has enabled them to experience self-respect and confidence.” Anju Gopinath, Administrative manager at Lokuttara Leadership Academy

Hygiene products provided to the academy

b. 55-inch LED TV: Enhancing the Learning Experience Additionally, the funds were utilized to acquire a 55-inch LED TV for the academy, facilitating internet-based learning opportunities. This modern teaching aid has transformed the learning experience for students, making it more engaging and interactive. With access to audio-visual resources, the children are now exposed to a broader spectrum of knowledge, fostering a deeper understanding of the subjects they study.

Students attending Saturday sessions at the Lokuttara Leadership Academy.

Impact on the Children: A Ray of Hope for a Brighter Future

The CSR project undertaken by Puri Oil Mills at the Lokuttara Leadership Academy, a Blossom Projects initiative, has significantly improved the lives of underprivileged children.

“We watched several videos together and discussed about what we want to do “after twelfth class”. Now I have lot of information about my higher studies and my career. Actually, this TV helped me to simulate my perspective” Mr. Manoj MM, Student at Lokuttara Leadership Academy

Conclusion

The CSR initiative at Lokuttara Leadership Academy which is a Blossom Projects program, reflects our dedication to making a positive impact on society. Our focus is on empowering marginalized communities, particularly young girls, which is a significant step towards creating a more equitable and inclusive world. We aim to inspire hope and pave the way for a brighter future by empowering these children through our contributions.

“I love Lokuttara Leadership Academy because I got an opportunity to develop myself and it supports my talents. I have big goals…those are, I would like to become a football player and captain of India women’s football team and become a policewoman.” Ms. Nanditha, Student at Lokuttara Leadership Academy