University students turn to teaching in schools

Lucknow, Jun 8 (UNI) In an effort to provide education to children engaged in hazardous jobs, students of Lucknow University have pitched in as part-time teachers in 8 schools in the Uttar Pradesh capital.

The department of social work, Lucknow University has started these schools as part of the child labour rehabilitation and welfare programme, in association with the Union Labour Ministry.

Head of the Social Work of LU Prof RBS Verma said these schools were meant for children engaged in hazardous jobs. ''The children are trained and taught in these schools and later on arrangements are made for their enrolment in regular government schools.

The aim of the project is to step up enforcement of child labour laws, formal and non-formal education, vocational training, income and employment generation, rehabilitation and raising public awareness.

There are over 46 such schools in the city. While eight have been given to LU's social work department, others are being managed by non-government organisations (NGOs).

The social work department manages schools based in rented accommodations in Bazar Kaliji, Daulatganj, Daliganj, Mankameshwer, Masakganj, Lala Lajpat Rai Nagar, Kadam Rasool, Maulana Kalbe Abid Hata and Chowk.

Two teachers, a vocational trainer, a clerk and a maid has been employed in each of the schools and are paid Rs 1400-1500 per month.

Majority of these teachers are college goers dedicated to social causes.

UNI NAB CH VA DS1306