Medha USA: Empowering Change from Across the Ocean

Since 2020, Medha (USA) has been a steadfast partner in the journey of Schools of the World (Kolkata), transforming the lives of underprivileged children and families in the heart of South Kolkata. Through its continued commitment, Medha has nurtured education, hope, and empowerment in one of the city’s most underserved slum communities.

At the center of this partnership stands the Joyjeet Das Memorial School (JDMS) — a humble yet vibrant learning hub serving nearly 200 children who might otherwise have been denied access to formal education. The school, an integral unit of Schools of the World, provides free, inclusive, and holistic education, blending academics with creativity, nutrition, and emotional well-being.

Medha’s support has ensured that every child at JDMS receives more than just classroom instruction. Over the years, the organization has funded specialized teachers for English, Science, and Mathematics, as well as an art educator who nurtures the children’s creative expression. The initiative has also provided daily fresh fruits, school bags, and festive celebrations for events such as Children’s Day, Christmas, and the school’s annual anniversary — making learning both joyful and dignified.

Beyond academics, the program touches families in deep, lasting ways. Through JDMS’s Vocational Training Centre for Mothers, women have been empowered with skills in tailoring, handicrafts, and boutique work. Many now contribute to their household income, gaining independence and a renewed sense of dignity. Stories like that of Arijit Dutta’s mother, who turned her training into stable employment to support her son’s dream of becoming an engineer, highlight how education uplifts entire families.

From New Jersey to Kolkata, Medha’s compassion transcends borders. Each dollar sent from the USA has directly translated into opportunities — nurturing young learners like Debika Naskar and Jamila Khatun, whose perseverance and achievements embody the power of access and encouragement.

As the partnership marks five remarkable years, the collaboration between Medha USA and Schools of the World stands as a testament to what shared humanity can achieve. Together, they are not only educating children but building a generation of confident, capable, and compassionate individuals — proving that change, even from across the ocean, begins with care.