The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), an autonomous organisation under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, is set to celebrate its 7th Foundation Day on April 01, 2025, at Akashwani Bhawan, Parliament Street, New Delhi. This milestone marks seven years of unwavering commitment to improving the educational landscape for tribal’s living across India. The event will serve as a platform to highlight the organisation’s achievements, honor outstanding contributors, and reaffirm its vision for the future of tribal education.
The grand celebration will be graced by the presence of Shri Jual Oram, Minister of Tribal Affairs, as the Chief Guest, alongside Shri Durgadas Uikey, Minister of State for Tribal Affairs, who will be the Guest of Honour. Senior officials from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and NESTS will also be in attendance, underlining the significance of the occasion. The event will feature a series of keynote addresses by dignitaries, cultural performances by Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) students, and a special segment showcasing NESTS’ role in enabling tribal youth to compete at national and global levels while preserving their rich cultural traditions.
A major highlight of the Foundation Day celebrations will be the recognition of exceptional EMRS students. Twelve students, who have demonstrated exemplary performance in academics, sports, and extracurricular activities, will be felicitated during the morning session. In the evening program, awards will be presented to staff members who have excelled in the annual Sports Meet. Additionally, a special screening will be conducted, showcasing the remarkable achievements of EMRSs over the past year, with an emphasis on their impact on education, skill development, and holistic growth.
Catalyst for tribal education
Since its inception, NESTS has been a transformative force in tribal education, spearheading the expansion of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) across the country. These schools serve as centers of empowerment, providing tribal students with quality education, modern skill development, and a strong connection to their cultural heritage. With the continuous efforts of Shri Ajeet Kumar Srivastava, Commissioner, NESTS, and his dedicated team, the organisation has made significant strides in enhancing infrastructure, recruiting teaching and non-teaching staff, and improving access to quality education for tribal students.
The primary objective of NESTS is to bridge the educational gap between tribal and non-tribal communities by providing free, residential schooling to Scheduled Tribe (ST) children from Class VI to XII. EMRSs offer a comprehensive curriculum that not only emphasises academic excellence but also fosters extracurricular engagement, skill development, and cultural preservation. These schools aim to create well-rounded individuals capable of excelling in both national and global arenas while maintaining a deep-rooted connection to their indigenous heritage.
Other initiatives by NESTS
Integration of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in Education
In November 2022, NESTS partnered with the 1M1B Foundation to train teachers and students in AR and VR technologies. This initiative was aligned with the AR-VR skills curriculum launched by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). The pilot phase was successfully implemented in EMRSs across Rajasthan and Uttarakhand, equipping students with skills in emerging technologies and contributing to India’s growing metaverse ecosystem. By integrating AR and VR into the learning process, students gain hands-on experience in simulated environments, enhancing their understanding of complex concepts in science, mathematics, and vocational training.
Development of the Eklavya Learning Management System (ELMS)
Recognising the need for digital learning, NESTS collaborated with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC) to create the Eklavya Learning Management System (ELMS). This e-learning platform offers diverse content formats, including audio, video, online labs, and quizzes, designed specifically for EMRS students. In December 2022, a two-day online training program was conducted to equip 52 teachers as master trainers for the implementation of ELMS nationwide. The introduction of ELMS has significantly enhanced the learning experience for tribal students, providing them with digital resources and interactive tools that make education more engaging and accessible.
Career Counseling Workshops with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT)
To broaden career perspectives for EMRS students, NESTS collaborated with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) to organise online career counseling sessions for Class XI and XII students. These workshops introduced students to various undergraduate courses, extracurricular activities, examination patterns, and eligibility criteria. The sessions featured interactions with industry experts and alumni, offering students valuable insights into potential career paths. By facilitating career guidance, NESTS ensures that tribal students are well-informed about higher education opportunities and can make informed decisions about their futures.
Digital Transformation Workshops with Microsoft Corporation
In November 2022, NESTS, in collaboration with Microsoft India, organised an online workshop titled “Education Transformation Framework” for EMRS principals and school heads. This initiative aimed to enhance technological skills among educators and students, focusing on integrating digital technologies to improve teaching and learning experiences. The first phase of the program targeted 36 EMRSs, emphasising professional development in Microsoft technologies and applications. By empowering educators with digital tools, NESTS is fostering a tech-savvy learning environment that prepares students for the challenges of the digital age.
Impact on ground
Through these initiatives, NESTS is committed to empowering tribal students by integrating advanced technologies, providing comprehensive career guidance, and fostering digital literacy. The organisation’s efforts have resulted in increased enrollment rates, improved academic performance, and greater participation in competitive examinations and skill-based programs.
Looking ahead, NESTS aims to further expand the EMRS network, enhance infrastructure, and introduce more skill-based programs tailored to the evolving job market. The organisation is also exploring collaborations with leading institutions and technology providers to introduce artificial intelligence, robotics, and coding programs in EMRSs. Additionally, efforts are being made to document and preserve tribal languages, art, and culture through specialized courses and extracurricular activities.
Government support and tribal entrepreneurship
In alignment with its commitment to tribal development, the government is also fostering entrepreneurship among tribal communities. An initiative in this direction is the “Dharti Abha Tribeprenures” startup event, set to be held in Delhi. This event will bring together aspiring tribal entrepreneurs, government officials, and industry leaders to explore opportunities for innovation, business growth, and financial inclusion. The event will showcase tribal startups, provide networking opportunities, and offer guidance on accessing government support programs.
The government remains dedicated to supporting tribal communities not only through education but also by integrating them into the national growth model. By promoting entrepreneurship, skill development, and financial empowerment, initiatives like “Dharti Abha Tribeprenures” aim to provide tribal youth with sustainable livelihoods, ensuring their active participation in India’s economic progress. These efforts reinforce the vision of an inclusive and equitable society where tribal communities can thrive while preserving their unique cultural heritage.
As NESTS celebrates its 7th Foundation Day, the event serves as a reminder of the organisation’s achievements and the ongoing mission to uplift and educate tribal youth across the nation. The continued support from the government, educational institutions, and corporate partners will be instrumental in shaping a brighter and more inclusive future for India’s tribal communities.
