Karnataka to link 2,000 government schools with private partners
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar launched the ‘Namma Shale Namma Javabdari’ programme to improve rural education quality through corporate support.
The Karnataka government plans to connect 2,000 government schools with corporate partners and private institutions to enhance education standards, according to a report by Urban Acres.
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced the ‘Namma Shale Namma Javabdari’ initiative during a meeting with corporate social responsibility (CSR) representatives at Vidhana Soudha on Wednesday. The first phase of the project will involve 1,000 schools.
Under the scheme, private schools can adopt up to three government schools based on their capacity and convenience. Support may include providing computers, laboratories, bus services, or sending qualified teachers to cover salaries. Shivakumar noted that private schools might be permitted to associate their names with the institutions they develop.
The Chief Minister stated that ₹8,800 crore in annual CSR funds is available, though some companies registered in the state spend their funds elsewhere. He said he would discuss this matter with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
School Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa said the state's public education system serves 1.12 crore students. He added that the government is working to recruit 18,000 teachers before the next academic year and has already appointed 43,553 guest teachers.
The next phase of the programme will be determined by the selection of schools and the level of support committed by private partners.