In today’s globalised economy, corporations are not just economic entities but also social institutions that can significantly contribute to societal development. One such area where corporations can make a significant impact is education. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in education is a powerful tool that can transform the lives of millions of students, providing them with opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed. Let us look at the top ten companies that made remarkable contributions to education through their CSR initiatives in 2023.
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
TCS has several flagship CSR initiatives focused on education.
“Literacy as a Service” (LaaS) is one such program, aimed at addressing non-literacy in India. It particularly targets women, who constitute 65% of the illiterate population, and marginalised communities. The program combines IT with cognitive theory and laws of perception to create an innovative teaching method. It offers animated graphic patterns for easy visual and auditory learning, with modules on functional and digital literacy and awareness of key citizen entitlements. The content is available in 12 languages. To date, LaaS has helped over 1.13 million learners, including around 60% women, and more than 200,000 Preraks achieve literacy. In August 2022, TCS launched the ‘Each one Empowers one’ portal, enabling TCS and Tata Group employees and their families to help non-literates in their local communities. This program has promoted social inclusion, financial stability, and economic growth.
“Ignite My Future” (IMF) is a professional development program for teachers that introduces the concept of computational thinking into all core subjects. Through professional development offerings, special projects, and engagements with partnered schools, IMF has made a significant impact. Its Learning Leaders community supports educators worldwide committed to learning about computational thinking. IMF India has launched regional chapters for the Learning Leaders community, catering to the regional learning requirements of teachers across India. IMF’s Global Innovations Project connects students and teachers worldwide as they explore and solve real-world problems using computational thinking. In FY 2023, IMF benefited more than 293,000 students and educators across globe.
TCS’s “goIT” (go Innovate Together) is a Digital Innovation program that prepares students with culturally relevant and context-appropriate learning experiences, coupled with modern technologies. The program aims to bridge the gap between employers’ needs and available skills, with the National Science Foundation predicting that 80% of the jobs created in the next decade will require some form of mathematics and science skilling. goIT uses a four-pronged model of volunteer-driven engagements, year-round connects via goIT Online, SDG-focused monthly challenges and work experience designed to introduce students to local experts and opportunities.
CSR of Reliance Industries Limited
Reliance Foundation’s commitment to education stands as a cornerstone in its vision for an inclusive India. Understanding the pivotal role of quality education in sustainable development, the Foundation’s initiatives are aligned with key United Nations Social Development Goals, particularly emphasising accessible and equitable education, economic growth, and reduced inequalities.
At the forefront of its educational endeavours is the Jio Institute, situated in Navi Mumbai. Aspiring for global recognition while upholding Indian academic excellence, the Institute not only imparts essential skills for employability but also ensures inclusivity through initiatives like Education and Sports for All (ESA), benefiting thousands of children.
The Dhirubhai Ambani Scholarship Programme (DAS) reflects Reliance’s belief in investing in youth. By offering scholarships to exceptional students across various academic streams, the Foundation aims to nurture future leaders in fields crucial for India’s progress.
Dhirubhai Ambani International School (DAIS), with its world-class education, prepares students for national and international curricula. The school’s transition to IB programmes showcases its commitment to excellence, supported by advanced technology integration and state-of-the-art campus infrastructure.
Reliance Foundation’s venture into Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) is transforming the landscape by ensuring age-appropriate developmental milestones for children aged three to six. Through Anganwadi centers and innovative initiatives like Pragya Shibir, the Foundation empowers children and supports their educational journey.
The Reliance Foundation Teacher Awards recognise and celebrate the exceptional contributions of educators, fostering a culture of excellence in teaching. By engaging thousands of teachers and providing significant cash awards, the Foundation elevates the importance of teaching in shaping society’s future.
In essence, Reliance Foundation’s CSR initiatives in education epitomise its commitment to nurturing talent, fostering inclusivity, and driving sustainable development in India. Through strategic investments and innovative programs, the Foundation continues to pave the way for a brighter and more equitable future for generations to come.
Education CSR Initiatives of Infosys
Infosys Foundation has been actively involved in promoting education, especially focusing on empowering girls through various initiatives. One such remarkable program is the Girls STEM Education Program launched in collaboration with Avanti Fellows. Aimed at providing free engineering and medical test preparation assistance to female students, the program has been instrumental in extending educational opportunities to girls across different regions in India. In fiscal year 2023, the program expanded its reach to encompass areas such as Delhi, Kerala, Telangana, Maharashtra, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Tripura, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim, and Nagaland.
The program’s approach is comprehensive, offering 6-12 hours of intensive test preparation classes weekly, conducted outside regular school hours. These classes are complemented by weekly assessments, spanning 1-3 hours, to evaluate students’ learning levels and track their progress accurately. The data obtained from these assessments is then utilised to tailor guidance and support to meet the individual needs of each student effectively.
Moreover, students enrolled in the program receive access to JEE/NEET online learning resources, class recordings, mock tests, and orientation sessions. These resources leverage Avanti’s technology platform to enable students to engage with online sessions and assessment tests efficiently. By providing such resources and support, the program equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to pursue their academic aspirations confidently and realise their career goals.
Additionally, Infosys Foundation collaborates with CITTA Education Foundation India in Rajasthan to promote gender equity through education. This joint effort targets students from villages and hamlets in Sam, Salkha, and Kanoi regions, with a particular focus on Rajkumari Ratnavati Girls School in Jaisalmer. The program, spanning one year starting from March 2023, adopts innovative teaching methodologies to make learning engaging and effective for the students. It aims not only to impart academic knowledge but also to foster holistic development by incorporating extracurricular activities such as sports and handicrafts.
Furthermore, community involvement is emphasised to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of the initiative. Through comprehensive surveys and collaboration with the district administration, the project identifies and reaches out to students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring inclusivity and equal access to educational opportunities. Additionally, the program provides essential learning materials, uniforms, midday meals, and transportation facilities to facilitate the students’ education journey.
Incorporating technology into education, the project establishes a digital library within the school premises to enhance learning experiences and develop digital literacy among students. This initiative reflects Infosys Foundation’s commitment to leveraging technology to bridge educational gaps and equip students with essential skills for the 21st century.
CSR of Wipro
Wipro’s dedication to education through its CSR initiatives has been both extensive and impactful. Focused on ensuring fair access to education for marginalised groups such as underprivileged communities, children with disabilities, and girls, Wipro has made significant progress in narrowing educational disparities. Presently, the company collaborates with about 140 partners from 27 Indian states and Union Territories, concentrating on 15 thematic areas. This diverse network positions Wipro as a key player in the education sector nationwide.
Emphasising the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange, Wipro hosted the 20th Partners’ Forum for its education partners in Pune in December 2022. This forum provided a platform for over 150 civil society organisations (CSOs) to convene, share ideas, and strategise for advancing educational endeavours. The event underscored Wipro’s commitment to nurturing a dynamic ecosystem of education-focused entities, facilitating collective action and cooperation for the enhancement of education in India.
Through its vast network and strategic alliances, Wipro’s CSR programs in education aim to tackle the multifaceted challenges prevalent in the sector. By harnessing the expertise and resources of its partners, Wipro endeavours to develop sustainable and effective solutions that foster positive change. Prioritising inclusivity, Wipro’s educational initiatives contribute to creating a more equitable educational landscape, empowering marginalised communities, and advocating for gender equality.
Wipro’s commitment to education transcends mere access; the company recognises the significance of quality education and consistently strives to improve learning outcomes for students. By promoting innovative teaching methods, enhancing infrastructure, and supporting teacher professional development, Wipro aims to cultivate an enabling environment conducive to holistic growth and development.
Wipro Earthian stands out as one of the largest and most impactful sustainability education programs in India. Designed to offer diverse learning opportunities, the program caters to both school and college students, empowering them to become champions of sustainability. Wipro Earthian has successfully engaged over 3,000 schools and 4,000 teachers across 200+ districts in India, significantly influencing education and environmental awareness.
In addition to school-focused initiatives, Wipro Earthian hosts a national sustainability quiz tailored for college students. Since its inception in 2015, the quiz has attracted participation from 8,600 teams, fostering healthy competition and promoting sustainability knowledge among youth.
Wipro Earthian’s impact extends beyond traditional classrooms by providing students with opportunities to explore and learn about sustainability, nurturing a deep understanding of environmental challenges and responsible practices. Through Wipro Earthian, students and teachers are encouraged to think critically, collaborate, and develop innovative solutions to real-world sustainability challenges.
Wipro TalentNext, another comprehensive program, aims at developing competencies in emerging digital technologies among students and faculty across India. In the current year, the program reached over 50,000 engineering students, equipping them with essential digital skills to thrive in the evolving technology landscape. Moreover, TalentNext prioritises capacity building for college faculty, with over 850 faculty members benefiting from faculty development programs.
Lastly, Wipro’s Systemic Education Reform program focuses on driving comprehensive and sustainable reforms in education. By partnering with organisations and leveraging their expertise, Wipro aims to address underlying factors contributing to educational challenges. Through capacity building, professional development, and innovative educational practices, the program empowers educators to deliver high-quality education and create meaningful learning experiences for students.
HDFC Bank CSR
HDFC Bank is deeply committed to promoting education in alignment with India’s Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan. Through its comprehensive program, the bank extends multifaceted support to schools, aiming to elevate the quality of education across the country. This support encompasses various facets, including teacher training, scholarships, career guidance for students, and infrastructural enhancements such as constructing toilets and improving classrooms.
The bank’s initiatives are structured to enhance teachers’ skills and implement cost-effective solutions to enhance existing educational systems and processes. Additionally, HDFC Bank focuses on establishing libraries, scientific laboratories, and digital classrooms to modernise the learning environment. The overarching goal is to elevate the standard of education in government schools through a meticulously planned, three-dimensional approach.
The first dimension of this approach involves transforming 2,500 traditional schools into smart schools, fostering conducive learning atmospheres, and equipping teachers with innovative teaching methodologies. The second dimension revolves around supporting academically meritorious yet financially underprivileged students through scholarships, ensuring that financial constraints do not impede the progress of promising young individuals. Finally, the third dimension centers on improving the overall quality of education in schools, with a specific target of achieving a 70% student proficiency level across various subjects and classes.
One notable initiative under this program is the introduction of digital classrooms, branded as Smart Classrooms by Parivartan, in state-run schools. These classrooms are equipped with pre-loaded projectors and interactive boards, offering engaging e-content tailored to the respective state curricula. To ensure the effective implementation of this initiative, HDFC Bank provides extensive training to teachers, empowering them to leverage the digital infrastructure to its fullest potential.
Through its steadfast commitment to education, HDFC Bank has positively impacted the lives of over 2.09 Crore students nationwide, catalysing positive change in the realm of education and nurturing the potential of future generations.
Adani Group CSR in Education
The Adani Foundation’s commitment to making quality education accessible and affordable has materialised through various initiatives, including cost-free schools like Adani Vidya Mandir and subsidised schools across India. These efforts aim to realise the true potential of children through smart learning programs and projects supporting government schools in remote areas.
One notable institution, Adani Vidya Mandir in Bhadreshwar (Gujarat), was established in 2012 to provide free education to socio-economically marginalised communities, particularly fisherfolk, who are often first-generation learners. Equipped with excellent infrastructure, this school, affiliated with the Gujarat State Education Board, became the first Gujarati medium school in Gujarat to receive NABET accreditation in 2022. Another instance is the Adani Public School in Mundra (Gujarat), established in 2001, serving over 2000 students and showcasing excellence in academics, sports, and value education.
In Andhra Pradesh, the Adani Foundation operates Adani Vidya Mandir and Adani World School in Krishnapatnam, providing free schooling and quality education to underprivileged communities. In Odisha, Adani DAV School in Dhamra, affiliated with CBSE, New Delhi, is run by Adani Foundation in collaboration with DAV College Trust.
The Adani Foundation’s educational initiatives extend to Maharashtra, where various programs in Dighi villages promote learning. These include School Praveshotsav, Adani Evening Education Center (AEEC), and BaLA painting work in Zilla Parishad schools to enhance learning environments.
Project Utthan, launched in July 2018, collaborates with the district administration to strengthen foundational literacy and numeracy in government schools. With a focus on individual attention and tailored teaching methodologies, Project Utthan has reached 21,570 students across 162 schools in Mundra, Hazira, Dahej, and Dhamra.
Additionally, the Foundation’s Udaan program organises exposure tours for students, allowing them to gain practical knowledge about various aspects of port, power, and edible oil refinery business operations. In FY 2022-23, 653 institutes, including schools and colleges, participated in these educational tours, benefitting over 39,000 students.
Furthermore, the Adani Foundation implements the Utthan project in Dhamra, Odisha, in collaboration with Think Zone, following the National Education Policy 2020’s guidelines. The project, focusing on foundational literacy and numeracy, has shown significant improvements in language and arithmetic scores.
To support higher education, the Foundation provides merit-cum-means scholarships in Dhamra, Odisha, ensuring that deserving students can pursue further studies without financial constraints. The Udaan project, inspired by the Chairman of the Adani Group, Mr. Gautam Adani, focuses on inspiring youth through exposure tours to Adani Group facilities, benefiting thousands of students each year.
Education Initiatives of Bajaj Auto
Bajaj Auto, recognising the pivotal role of education in fostering sustainable development, has strategically integrated several CSR initiatives focused on enhancing educational opportunities within its operational areas. One of the key endeavors is the implementation of STEM education in local schools and tuition centers. By introducing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs, the company aims to ignite students’ interest in these subjects, thereby enriching their academic experience and preparing them for future challenges. Moreover, Bajaj Auto has collaborated with ‘Lend A Hand India’ to bolster vocational education in secondary and higher secondary schools in Rajasthan and Uttarakhand. This partnership aims to bridge the gap between formal education and employability by integrating vocational training with mainstream curriculum. Through this intervention, the company seeks to empower youth with the skills necessary for employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. Additionally, Bajaj Auto’s ‘Rupa Rahul Bajaj Scholarship Program’ underscores its commitment to supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds in pursuing higher education. By providing financial assistance to deserving individuals, the company not only facilitates access to education but also nurtures talent and fosters inclusivity within the community. These initiatives reflect Bajaj Auto’s dedication to promoting educational excellence and socio-economic empowerment, thereby contributing to the holistic development of society.
Tata Motors CSR initiatives in Education
Tata Motors is deeply committed to contributing to the improvement of education in India, recognising its pivotal role in shaping the future of the nation. The Vidyadhanam Program stands as a testament to this commitment. In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, which disrupted the education of millions, Tata Motors initiated the Vidyadhanam program, allocating a substantial amount of Rs. 8.05 crore in FY 2023. This program employs a multifaceted approach aimed at enhancing the learning outcomes of secondary and higher secondary government school students. It encompasses various initiatives such as special coaching classes for secondary school students and coaching sessions for those preparing for Medical and Engineering entrance examinations. Furthermore, Vidyadhanam extends need-based scholarships to meritorious students facing financial challenges, fostering inclusivity in education. Additionally, Tata Motors integrates sports, co-curricular activities, and sessions on value-based life skills into the program to create a holistic educational experience. By addressing gaps in school infrastructure, Tata Motors contributes to establishing positive and conducive learning environments in government-run public schools, ultimately empowering millions of students across socio-economic backgrounds.
The ENABLE Initiative, another remarkable endeavor by Tata Motors, focuses on providing JEE and NEET coaching to students of Standards XI and XII from Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs) across India. These government residential schools cater to talented students from rural areas, yet preparing them for competitive examinations posed a significant challenge due to financial constraints. Tata Motors, in collaboration with NVS, introduced e-enabled remote learning programs, ensuring access to quality coaching regardless of geographical barriers. This initiative, which began with a residential Centre for Excellence in Puducherry in 2014, transitioned entirely to virtual platforms post-pandemic, reaching 477 JNVs in 26 states and eight UTs. Through partnerships with knowledge partners like Avanti Fellows and Ex Navodayan Foundation, Tata Motors ensures rigorous coaching and constant support, resulting in remarkable success rates. In FY22 alone, Tata Motors facilitated 3400 students’ enrollment in top engineering and medical schools, with a significant portion being women, thus fostering gender inclusivity in STEM education.
Moreover, Tata Motors leverages technology to aid coaching through initiatives like the Pre-Matric Coaching Centre (PMC), benefiting economically underprivileged rural students. Despite disruptions caused by the pandemic, PMC swiftly adapted by transitioning to online classrooms, ensuring continuity in education. By providing access to online resources and maintaining engagement through virtual platforms, Tata Motors mitigated the adverse effects of the pandemic on students’ academic progress. The success of this approach is evident in the impressive academic achievements of PMC students, with many scoring over 80% marks in matriculation despite the challenges posed by COVID-19.
Furthermore, Tata Motors extends its support to vulnerable communities through scholarship programs, such as the Girl’s Scholarship Program in Pune. This initiative aims to stem dropout rates among girls from lower-income families and delay early marriages, empowering them to pursue higher education and career opportunities. By offering financial assistance and guidance, Tata Motors endeavours to break the cycle of poverty and social inequalities, enabling girls to build brighter futures for themselves.
CSR of Mahindra Group
The Mahindra Group has made significant strides in its corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts within the realm of education, particularly through its Project Nanhi Kali initiative. With a steadfast commitment to uplifting underprivileged girls, the project has provided essential support to 1,86,041 young learners across 22 districts in 9 states of India. Even amidst challenges, the Mahindra Group’s unwavering support persisted, ensuring that 85,778 girls continued to receive assistance. Recognising the prevalent issue of high dropout rates and learning disparities among teenage girls, Project Nanhi Kali took a proactive approach by introducing specialised training programs in Life Skills and Digital Skills. These initiatives aimed to empower underprivileged girls, equipping them with crucial tools for personal and professional development. Impressively, over 31,908 additional girls benefited from these training programs across 2 states, with the Mahindra Group’s backing reaching 25,600 of these girls. Through targeted interventions and sustained support, the Mahindra Group’s CSR endeavours in education are making a tangible difference in the lives of countless young girls, paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future.
Bharti Enterprises Education CSR Initatives
Bharti Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Bharti Enterprises, one of India’s leading business conglomerates. It is committed to providing quality education to underprivileged children in rural India. Since its inception, Bharti Foundation has launched several initiatives aimed at enhancing the educational landscape of the country. Here’s a detailed overview of some of their key initiatives:
1. Satya Bharti Schools: Satya Bharti Schools are the flagship initiative of Bharti Foundation. These schools are established in rural areas with limited or no access to quality education. They provide free education to children from economically weaker sections of the society. The curriculum is designed to not only focus on academic excellence but also on holistic development, including life skills, values, and extracurricular activities.
2. Satya Bharti Quality Support Program: Bharti Foundation understands that quality education goes beyond infrastructure and curriculum. Therefore, they have introduced the Satya Bharti Quality Support Program to enhance the quality of teaching and learning in government schools. This program provides capacity-building support to teachers and school leaders through training workshops, mentoring, and the provision of teaching-learning materials.
3. Satya Bharti Abhiyan: Satya Bharti Abhiyan is an initiative launched to improve the condition of government schools in rural areas. Under this program, Bharti Foundation collaborates with the government to adopt and revitalise government schools, focusing on infrastructure development, teacher training, and community engagement. The aim is to transform these schools into centers of excellence.
4. Satya Bharti Learning Centre: Recognising the importance of early childhood education, Bharti Foundation has set up Satya Bharti Learning Centers. These centers provide a stimulating learning environment for children between the ages of 3 to 5 years, preparing them for formal schooling. The curriculum is designed to promote cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.
5. Satya Bharti Model Schools: Satya Bharti Model Schools are established as demonstration centers of excellence in education. These schools showcase best practices in teaching, learning, and school management. They serve as training hubs for teachers and school leaders from other Satya Bharti Schools, helping in the replication of successful models.
Overall, Bharti Foundation’s initiatives are aimed at bridging the educational divide between rural and urban areas in India. By focusing on quality education, infrastructure development, teacher training, and community involvement, they are making significant strides towards creating a brighter future for the children of rural India.
In conclusion, these companies, through their CSR projects, are playing an essential role in improving the quality of education in India. Their initiatives not only create a significant impact on society but also set a benchmark for other businesses. As we move forward, it is hoped that more corporations will join the cause and contribute to shaping the future of our country.
