BHUBANESWAR: Aditya Birla Group’s Hindalco, Hirakud has launched the company’s "GYANARJAN Project", in
Odisha. Basically, Gyanarajan trains Class-V and Class-X students in perceived tough subjects such as science,
maths and English, to enable students to crack the entrance exams to professional courses for admission to
institutes of eminence. It aims to equip them to answer common entrance exams in various professional
educational courses.
Collaborating with ALOK of Burla, the implementing agency, the "GYANARJAN" has established education
centres at Sai World School, Hirakud and Government Nodal High School, Mahammadpur.
Interestingly most of the students from the marginalised section aspire to get into renowned institutions like
Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya and Navodaya Vidyalayas, among others. Gyanarajan equips them with essential
knowledge and skills for entrance examinations to such schools. Initially providing extra coaching classes for
Class-X students, it now includes Class-V students. This is to stoke in them the fire to move higher and higher
at an early stage.
The curriculum is well designed, handling subjects such as Science, Social Science, Mathematics, English and
Odia. Specialized remedial classes in Science, Mathematics, and English are provided for Class-X students.
Rigorous evaluation and active parental involvement ensure that students receive the necessary support and
guidance to navigate their academic journey successfully.
Avers Shri Kailash Pandey, Hindalco Business Head, Mining and Cluster Head–Sambalpur, "The GYANARJAN
Project stands as a testament to Hindalco's dedication to educational empowerment and community progress.
Through equipping students with essential knowledge, skills, and support, we strive to encourage students to
dream big and pursue their passion.
Beyond academics, the project emphasizes extracurricular activities like essay writing, debates, songs, dances,
and quizzes to foster creativity and critical thinking. Exposure visits to places like Sambalpur University,
Sambalpur Zoo and Hirakud Dam provide unique experiences, while yoga sessions promote physical and
mental well-being."
Smt. Karisma Bag, a parent from Hirakud, expressed gratitude for the free coaching provided by Hindalco
under the "GYANARJAN Project". This has significantly improved her daughter's academic performance.
Dr. Muralidhar Behera, Additional District Education Officer, Sambalpur, lauded Hindalco for its efforts in
providing comprehensive training to students, thereby fostering their academic success.
Dr. Ram Naresh Mahaling, Chemistry Professor at Sambalpur University, commended Hindalco's endeavour to
and provide free remedial classes, fostering inclusivity and bridging educational divides.
In Odisha, the Aditya Birla Group reaches out to more than 5 lakhs people touching over 2 lakh lives in 128
villages. The Group’s CSR is conducted under the aegis of the Aditya Birla Centre for Community Initiatives and
Rural Development chaired by Mrs. Rajashree Birla. The Group’s vision is to actively contribute to the social
and economic development of the communities in which we operate. In doing so, build a better, sustainable
way of life for the weaker sections of society. And raise the country’s human development index. The Group’s
CSR vision is aligned with UNSDG goals to eliminate poverty and ensure freedom from hunger.