A grassroot movement led by a women self-help group (SHG) in Enkepally village of Vikarabad district has proved that community mobilisation can bring desired results.
The SHG had been active in taking part in community work and their contribution was earlier noted in improved village roads and bus connectivity. But now, appreciation for them has come from the Department of School Education.
Led by its leader B. Manemma and five other community resource persons, the group achieved an increase in student enrolment at the village’s government school — from 35 pupils in the 2024-25 academic year to 114 now. The group was active in its outreach and meeting parents door to door as part of the Badi Bata programme announced the department to boost enrolment.
But now, the school has a new challenge: lack of sufficient teachers. The Enkepally school has just three teachers for over 100 students.
Lauding the SHG for its actions, director of School Education, E.Naveen Nicolas said the results achieved by Ms. Manemma and group is outstanding, because the increase in student enrolment at the school was not only a leap, but the highest increase in Vikarabad district.
“The story of Enkepally is the story of people’s faith in public education. When communities take ownership, schools become stronger and children’s futures become brighter. Their actions remind us that true development begins when people come together for a shared cause,” he stated.
He assured that the department and Samagra Shiksha will extend full support to strengthen the school and provide adequate teachers, and sustain the momentum to translate people’s efforts into lasting learning opportunities for every child.
Published – November 10, 2025 08:08 pm IST
