Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) has embarked on a transformative journey to bridge the gap between education and economic disadvantages with its innovative Earn-and-Learn Scheme. This program not only provides financial support but also inculcates a strong work ethic in students, enabling them to contribute to society. The recent announcement by Vice Chancellor Dr. Narendra Jadhav underscores the importance of flexible education that aligns with students’ work preferences.
Empowering Rural Students
In a nation where a substantial portion of the population resides in rural areas, economic disparities often impede higher education. SPPU’s Earn-and-Learn Scheme aims to empower economically disadvantaged yet promising students from rural backgrounds who face financial hurdles in pursuing higher education. The initiative emphasizes the significance of every job, irrespective of its size or nature.
Accessible Higher Education
This groundbreaking program represents a paradigm shift in the perception of higher education. It is designed to make higher education accessible to marginalized and underprivileged students, thereby broadening the horizons of opportunity for those who may have otherwise been left behind.
Operational Structure
Currently, the program is offered at both post-graduate levels on the SPPU campus and at the graduate level in affiliated colleges and recognized institutions under the University of Pune’s jurisdiction. Affiliated colleges and institutions are eligible for financial assistance that covers half of the expenses incurred in running the program, provided they meet the requisite criteria.
Involvement Process
Students eager to participate in the program need to complete an application form, which undergoes a thorough review by a designated committee. The final list of enrolled students is then submitted to the Director of the Board of Students’ Welfare by September 15th each year, granted that the respective college or institution has obtained permission to participate in the scheme.
Diverse Skill Development
Once enrolled, students are engaged in various types of work to enrich their skill sets. These tasks encompass activities related to their field of study, office work, technical assignments, and fieldwork. To ensure equity, students are provided equal opportunities to engage in different types of work, with an 80% emphasis on technical work and 20% on fieldwork. Office work may involve tasks such as library assistance or office administration.
Fair Compensation
To compensate students for their contributions, the program offers an honorarium of Rs. 45 per hour, following revised rates effective from February 1, 2017. Payments are contingent on maintaining attendance records, which the respective institute, college, or university must monitor. Students are encouraged to open bank accounts in their local areas to receive payments through checks.
Financial Support
The financial support provided to colleges and institutions participating in the program is calculated based on specific ratios. Depending on the number of enrolled students, they receive financial assistance as per the following brackets:
- 1 to 500 students – Rs. 75,000
- 501 to 1000 students – Rs. 1,50,000
- 1001 to 1500 students – Rs. 2,25,000
- 1501 to 2000 students – Rs. 3,00,000
- 2001 to 2500 students – Rs. 3,75,000
- An incremental increase for every additional 500 students, reaching Rs. 15,00,000 for 9501 to 10000 students.
Budget Allocation
The current budget allocates Rs. 6 Crores to ensure that every eligible student receives an opportunity to work and participate in this valuable program.
SPPU’s Earn-and-Learn Scheme is a testament to the university’s commitment to promoting inclusive education and fostering the growth of talented students who may have otherwise remained on the fringes of academic advancement.
