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At Puri Oil Mills Limited, we believe that when you empower a mind, you uplift a community. Education is our strongest tool for positive change, so our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts focus on driving impactful transformations in marginalized communities.
We are thrilled to spotlight Lokuttara Leadership Academy (Lokuttara), an initiative of Blossom Projects. Lokuttara is a learning community in Kerala that aims to empower Dalit and tribal youth through education, building core skills, leadership, and employment.
Their dedication and passion have positively impacted the lives of underprivileged students in Kerala. We are very encouraged as this initiative has created meaningful change in these students' education, hygiene, and overall well-being.
Key Initiatives Driven by Lokuttara
In addition to providing infrastructure and operational support, specific initiatives have been implemented to create a holistic growth environment for the students, addressing both their immediate needs and long-term development.
Provision of Personal Hygiene Kits
A crucial aspect of the initiative was prioritising personal hygiene for the students at Lokuttara. To achieve this, hygiene kits containing essentials like sanitary pads, hair oil, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and soap were regularly distributed. This initiative was particularly aimed at improving the retention of female students, who often face disruptions in their education during menstruation. By consistently providing these essentials, the initiative not only enhanced students’ well-being but also enabled them to focus better on their studies, fostering a more supportive and conducive learning environment.
Introduction of Educational Technology
We also funded the purchase of a 55” Smart TV and a web camera, which became vital educational tools for the students. The TV served multiple purposes: it broadcasted daily news, offering students insights into current events and global affairs; provided access to online English lessons, entrance exam training, and self-learning resources; and facilitated weekly movie screenings that encouraged language development and cultural awareness through engaging discussions. Access to the smart TV gave the students an opportunity to improve their English proficiency, public speaking abilities, and overall knowledge.
Success Stories That Inspire Us
Gowrisankar’s Journey
Gowrisankar’s experience at Lokuttara highlights the transformative power of this initiative. Coming from a village with limited access to electricity and no television, he found it exciting to engage with his lessons on a large screen. This opportunity enabled him to pursue a BA in Malayalam at Kerala University. His story is a testament to the potential that can be unlocked through education.
Sivakami’s Journey
For Sivakami, the weekly movie sessions have been a window to the world, allowing her to explore different cultures and languages. “Watching classic world movies has made me feel like I’m traveling the world,” she shared. Sivakami’s passion for learning has flourished under Lokuttara’s nurturing environment, showcasing the impact of such programs.
Celebrating Overall Outcomes
Thanks to Lokuttara Leadership Academy, 19 students have found new hope. Out of these, 18 have completed their courses, with some pursuing graduation and others delving into technical education. Two students have even stepped into the workforce! These achievements are more than just numbers—they are stories of courage, determination, and transformation.
At Puri Oil Mills Limited, we are immensely grateful to Lokuttara Leadership Academy and Blossom Projects. Their dedication is making a world of difference, one young life at a time. This initiative isn't just a chapter in our CSR journey—it’s a testimony to the power of community-driven education.
