Maharashtra Free CBSE Education Model Benefits 20,000 Students

A success story regarding an educational action in Maharashtra has come out, showing that quality education need not be restricted to financially well-off families. An organisation named the Jijau Educational and Social Organisation currently operates 10 CBSE English-medium schools across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and Palghar district, where approximately 20,000 students receive an education entirely free of cost. Students are provided with not only free tuition but also books, educational materials, and school bus services at no charge.

This project was launched in 2014 through the establishment of the first school in Jhadpoli, an initiative led by social worker and educationist Nilesh Sambare. Although it began with a single school, the educational network has gradually expanded.

Currently, the organisation operates CBSE English-medium schools in several locations, including Brahmanpada, Chalatwad, Ambadi, Khodala, Jhap, Gotheghar, Mokada, Kasara, and Dolkhamb.

The most significant feature of this action is that no tuition fees are charged to the students. At a time when many families struggle to afford school fees for their children, these schools provide education entirely free of cost.

Beyond classroom instruction, students receive free textbooks, notebooks, and other educational materials, as well as school bus transportation. So, the path to education has become much more popular for children from rural and economically disadvantaged families.

Another key aspect of this educational model is the special focus placed on preparation for competitive examinations. Students begin preparing for the NEET and JEE exams as early as the 9th class. Alongside experienced teachers, IIT-trained faculty members are also involved in this coaching program. So, students have the opportunity to prepare for medical and engineering entrance exams right from the school level.

The organisation is also undertaking another significant initiative to promote education. Every year, approximately 35 lakhs of books and notebooks are distributed among students. This action aims to guarantee that a lack of books and educational materials does not hamper any student's progress.

Nilesh Sambare, the founder of the organisation, believes that access to education should never depend on a family's financial situation. In his view, every child should have an equal opportunity to learn and develop their talents. The organisation operates based on this ideology, bringing about positive changes in the lives of thousands of students.

Jijau Educational and Social Organisation does not plan to stop here. The organisation plans to establish another 50 new schools in the Konkan region in the near future. If this plan is successfully applied, many more students will gain access to quality CBSE education, potentially bringing about significant changes in the rural education system.

I am writing about this topic because the cost of education has become a major challenge for many families today. At a time like this, if an institution can provide quality education to thousands of students free of charge, it certainly merits discussion. This action not only expands access to education but also sets a new precedent for equality and development in society.