As we continue our commitment to promoting healthcare for children, women, and breadwinners—our primary focus for 2023-24—let’s review the significant initiatives we’ve undertaken from January to March 2024, marking the final quarter of the fiscal year 2023-24

Healthcare

1. Funded the purchase of 20,000 Hb strips to screen 20,000 pregnant women at Jharkhand in partnership with the State Government.

20,000 pregnant women have had the means to ensure their well-being and that of their unborn children. With the provision of 20,000 Hb strips, each strip represents a chance for a mother to monitor her health and her baby’s with ease thus ensuring peace of mind to them. It’s not just about the strips; it’s about the assurance that every heartbeat is cherished and protected.

The strips were handed over to the Civil Surgeon whose team conducted the Hb tests for the women in the East Singhbum district of Jharkhand.

2. Women’s Day – Health Awareness program to 350 government schoolteachers at Manipal

Manipal Foundation conducted an impactful awareness program on Thyroid, Diabetes and Menopause, benefiting 350 government schoolteachers in Udupi. Dr Shyamala and Dr Sahana from Kasturba Medical College, who are subject matter experts, spoke on the above topics. This initiative equipped the educators with vital knowledge, fostering a healthier community and nurturing a culture of well-being from within. Such programs not only cultivate health literacy but also sow seeds of care within our communities.

3. Other Initiatives:

In the quarter January-February-March 2024, Manipal Foundation extended a beacon of hope to 209 individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. This funding facilitated crucial surgeries, treatments, and procedures across various Manipal hospitals through which lives were transformed, burdens were lifted, and hope was restored to those who needed it most.

Education

1. Sri Ramakrishna Ashrama, Mysuru, which was established in 1925, is a branch centre of the worldwide Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission with its headquarters at Belur Math, Howrah, West Bengal.

Manipal Foundation has extended funding support for the construction of Viveka Smaraka, a beacon of enlightenment dedicated to Swami Vivekananda’s life and teachings. A range of short-term courses designed to impart essential skills and values, echoing the wisdom and ethos of the revered spiritual leader will be imparted in this facility. By nurturing both practical abilities and moral principles, our youth will be empowered to lead purposeful and principled lives, thus enriching communities and fostering a brighter future for all.

This structure would consist of the following: –

• A covered amphitheatre seating 600 people
• A smaller central hall
• A museum
• Classrooms for conducting various courses
• A mini hall for meditation and yoga
• A training cell for rural youth consisting of a library, study rooms, mini conference rooms, an office and an administrative unit.

2. The Government School at Kogilu was supported by installing safety grills and construction of a washroom for the girl students. The ribbon cutting event on completion of this project was attended by the trustee of the trust that donated the land for the construction of the school, members of the top leadership team of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Bangalore Campus, CEO of Manipal Foundation, the Headmaster of the school, the staff members and the students.

A standout moment in the project was the enthusiastic participation of students from Shrishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology, Bangalore in beautifying the walls of the girls’ washroom. Their creativity not only added aesthetic charm but also fostered a sense of ownership and pride in the facility. This collaborative effort exemplifies the power of community engagement and highlights the transformative impact of student involvement in creating inclusive and welcoming spaces for all.

3. Ten new schools have become beneficiaries of Manipal Foundation’s flagship project, the Virtual Classroom Learning Program by which approximately 800 students in grades 9 and 10 will now have access to high-quality education resources and opportunities regardless of their geographical location or socioeconomic background.

4. Other Initiatives

Manipal Foundation’s initiative at Jaipur, in partnership with Manipal University Jaipur, brings digital empowerment to four government schools in Jaipur, by funding the setup of computer labs which will equip students with vital digital skills, opening doors to a brighter future. By bridging the digital gap, the Foundation paves the way for a more inclusive and promising education for all.
Manipal Foundation has donated 40 laptops have been donated to government schools in Jharkhand, enriching students’ learning experiences and fostering digital literacy. This initiative signifies a commitment to empowering the next generation and promoting educational equality.