Delhi Government reviews ‘Youth for Education’ scheme

Earlier today, Delhi Education Minister Manish Sisodia chaired a high-level meeting to review the Government of Delhi’s newly launched ‘Youth for Education’ programme. The policy recognises the need for a one-to-one mapping of each child, especially those who are in the final years of schooling. To enhance competency among such kids, the Delhi Government has now decided to provide adequate guidance and counselling to help students make the right life and career choice after completing the 12th standard.  

Under the programme, children will receive adequate guidance and counselling from the young generation that has been through a similar process and can share valuable input. A mentor will be assigned to a group of students based on their interests, which will help them gain insights into the field of their choice. A child aspiring to take an unconventional career path such as performing arts will also be guided in this youth programme. 

This new policy will help government school students get back on track as the government schools do not offer provisions of guidance and handholding students who need advice on their career. There are 16 lakh government school students in Delhi and it’s a big challenge to cater to the needs of everyone. This programme is an ideal solution to bridge the gap and build a progressive society. 

The Youth for Education programme has already started on a trial basis in 46 schools of East and South-Easy Delhi and 4000 mentors have been roped in to guide students till now. The aim is to create a pool of 2 lakh young people to mentor around 5 lakh Delhi Government school students. Each mentor will guide 2-3 students. The government has requested college students and working professionals below 30 years of age to come forward and volunteer for this noble cause. 

Manish Sisodia also took stock of  ‘The Parent Outreach Program’, another education policy by the Delhi Government for the welfare of Government school kids. It aims to create a strong bond in the community by building a network of School Management Committee (SMC) members and families of the student. Under the programme, 560 SMC members and heads of 41 schools have been trained so far. It is a must for every member of SMC to have regular communication with at least 50 students. 

In an official statement, the Delhi Government said, "These two programmes will ensure that our community is shaped in a way that helps students grow holistically. They act as a support system for the pupils and their families. Our principals need to take ownership of this programme, to make an alumni group in schools and engage in localised mentoring."