Health and Education Project

9 day-care centres, 12 social workers, around 250 small children

CONTEXT

The state of Odisha in eastern India is one of the poorest in the country. The project region around Somagiri is home to various indigenous groups who face discrimination and severe socio-economic challenges. Many families rely on irregular day labour to survive.

Access to medical services in the region around Somagiri is extremely limited. In addition, poor nutrition, contaminated water and a lack of active support hinder children’s healthy development. Due to their heavy workload, parents lack the time to look after their children.

HEALTH AND EDUCATION PROJECT (HEP)

The Health and Education Project (HEP) provides targeted support to young children through nine day care centres in the region. In the state-run day-care centres – known as Anganwadi centres – children aged between 3 and 6 are looked after during the day. Trained social workers from the project collaborate closely with Anganwadi staff to promote early childhood development. They create a safe and stimulating environment where children can learn, play, and grow together. Regular health checks and deworming treatments ensure that the children receive essential medical care. The programme also engages parents through educational sessions on nutrition, health, and early childhood development.

The social workers live in the surrounding villages.

At the day care centres, the children are given a healthy meal.

Early support helps children settle into state schools.