“How CSR can impact the education space for children?” Event in Kolkata
“Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in education is not just a legal obligation but a real responsibility to help build a better future for children and society.” This is, in short, the key essence of the CSR Roundtable promoted by Terres des Hommes Suisse in Kolkata on December 12.
Kamal Deep Jain, ST Foundation County Manager, first on the left
Leaders from the corporate sector, civil society, and young changemakers came together to discuss how CSR can make a meaningful difference in education for children across India.
Kamal Deep Jain, our India Country Manager, was one of the main speakers. He spoke frankly about the challenges many schools face in India, such as poor infrastructure and limited access to technology. For instance, only about 55% of schools in India have computers available for teaching and learning, which creates a big gap in opportunities for students.
Kamal shared that education has consistently received the largest share of CSR funding—almost 30% between 2014 and 2023—showing that companies recognize its importance. Yet, much remains to be done to ensure education reaches every child and leaves a meaningful and lasting impact on last-mile learners.
He introduced our Digital Unify Program, running in 15 countries across Europe, Asia, and Africa, which partners with local schools, NGOs, and communities to improve digital literacy, provide resources, train teachers, and support inclusive education for children with different needs. It also focuses on holistic learning, including life skills, moral education, and environmental awareness.
Kamal emphasized that CSR efforts can create real change by improving school infrastructure, supporting teachers, promoting inclusive education, and encouraging learning beyond textbooks. He also pointed out how CSR funding is used differently across India. States like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat have focused on digital literacy and scholarships, while Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh have prioritized improving school facilities and teacher training to reduce dropout rates.
Aligning CSR initiatives with the National Education Policy 2020, which promotes hands-on learning and critical thinking, is another important step.
He closed by reminding everyone that CSR is a responsibility to society, not just a duty. Investing in children’s education means investing in the future.
The event also marked 35 years of Terres des Hommes Suisse’s work in India, protecting children’s rights and supporting their education. Our presence showed how collaboration among companies and non-profits can drive lasting positive change.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to TdH Suisse, who continues to support and introduce local potential partners to amplify our efforts in India. We are encouraged by the positive progress and tangible impact achieved across diverse communities—from tribal villages in Ghatsila, Jharkhand, through Rural Development Association-NGO, to marginalized and migrant populations in West Bengal via SMOKUS-NGO, urban slum children in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, through Center for Integrated Development-NGO, and recently, backward communities including Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, through Adarsh Seva Sansthan. We also look forward to engaging with additional partners within their network to further expand our reach.
The ST Foundation remains committed to strengthening this partnership and working towards a brighter, more equitable world where everyone has access to the digital tools they need to thrive.
Terres des Hommes Suisse
Terre des Hommes Suisse (TdH Suisse) is an international child rights organization. Since 1960, TdH has helped build a better future for children and youth, especially those most exposed to risks, by making an impact with innovative and sustainable solutions.
In India, TdH has been actively working for the past 35 years to promote and protect children’s rights across three states. Through eight projects, TdH has established safe spaces and positively impacted nearly 38,000 children and young people.
More information is available at https://terredeshommessuisse.ch/