Proper nutrition is of utmost importance for the optimal growth and development of children. During the early years of life, when rapid physical and cognitive development takes place, adequate nutrition plays a vital role in shaping their overall well-being. Essential nutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals are necessary for the proper functioning of the body and brain. These nutrients support the development of healthy bones, muscles, and organs, while also providing the energy needed for daily activities and learning.
In the vast rural landscape of Assam, where access to quality education and proper nutrition can be a challenge, there is a school that is making a remarkable difference. Nestled in the serene village of Simbargaon, just a short distance from Kokrajhar, the Simbargaon Higher Secondary School has become a beacon of hope for parents and a shining example of the crucial role schools play in ensuring the well-being of children. Founded in 1939, this esteemed institution has not only prioritized academic excellence but has also recognized the importance of nutrition in nurturing young minds through the implementation of the Mid-Day Meal Scheme.
A Botanical Park of Education
When one enters the Simbargaon Higher Secondary School, they are greeted by a sight that is reminiscent of a botanical park. Spread over more than seven acres, the school features classrooms built like cottages. The serene and natural environment provides an ideal setting for learning. The school offers classes in the Bodo language for Bodo tribal students and in Assamese for Adivasi and Muslim students.
One of the main reasons parents clamour for admission to the Simbargaon Higher Secondary School is the emphasis on nutrition. The school has integrated agriculture and farming into its curriculum, which has yielded remarkable results. The students have not only excelled academically but have also built a reputation in sports, emerging as runners-up at the last U-14 Kokrajhar district-level summer school tournament.
Kamal Basumatary, a father of one of the students, expressed his satisfaction, stating, “What reassures us is that our children get good food during their midday meal.” The school’s focus on providing quality food has been highly appreciated by parents and has contributed to the overall development and well-being of the students.
Varnali Deka, the Deputy Commissioner of Kokrajhar, commended the efforts of the school and the community. She mentioned that the district had been lacking in terms of nutrition parameters, but with the convergence of efforts from various departments, institutions, and the community, there has been a noticeable increase in awareness and efforts to eat right over the past few years.
Mushroom Cultivation
Simbargaon Higher Secondary School is one of the 16 schools in Kokrajhar that have taken the mission of nutrition to a different level. The school has introduced mushroom cultivation in its nutri-garden, contributing to the overall nutrition of the students. This unique initiative has been well-received and has garnered attention from district officials.
The uniqueness of Simbargaon Higher Secondary School can be attributed to the passion of its principal, Sansuwmi Basumatary, and chowkidar (caretaker), Shambhu Charan Mushahary. Besides their regular jobs, they pursue farming within the school premises.
The school’s farming initiatives go beyond providing nutrition to the students. The principal and caretaker have planted various trees, including shade, flowering, and wood-yielding trees, creating an orchard comprising jackfruit, guava, banana, and lemon. They have also involved teachers, non-teaching staff, and students in growing seasonal vegetables.
Furthermore, the school saves on timber needed for desks and benches by growing gambhari (beechwood or white teak) trees. Whenever a tree is hewn for furniture, a sapling is planted in its place. This sustainable approach not only reduces costs but also teaches students valuable lessons about environmental conservation and resource management.
Simbargaon Higher Secondary School goes beyond traditional education by equipping its students with practical skills. Principal Basumatary stated, “The students are taught various aspects of growing their food so that they could earn a livelihood if they could not make it through academic pursuit.” This holistic approach ensures that students have options and opportunities beyond academic success.
Challenges
While the efforts of Simbargaon Higher Secondary School are commendable, they come at a cost. The school receives an annual grant of ₹75,000 for maintenance and various expenditures, including an average of ₹1,000 for electricity per month. However, this amount is not sufficient to sustain the farming initiatives. Principal Basumatary mentioned that they manage with the income generated from farming and by pooling resources.
