Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) in alignment with the Tata Affirmative Action framework, offers a remedial educational and development support program for girls from Classes 1 to 10 in collaboration with YOJAK (Youth Organization for Joining, Action & Knowledge).
Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President – Human Resources, IHCL, said, “IHCL implements affirmative action through various initiatives aimed at providing opportunities for disadvantaged communities. In line with Paathya, IHCL’s ESG+ framework, the company’s Girl Child’s Community Learning Programme is a focused intervention aimed at empowering young girls through education and holistic development. Growing to 400 beneficiaries in a year reflects the programme’s relevance and the depth of our engagement.”
Addressing barriers to education in coastal communities
In Mumbai’s coastal communities of Koliwada and Macchimarnagar, young girls face persistent challenges in accessing quality education, contributing to elevated school drop-out rates. To address this, IHCL, in collaboration with YOJAK, launched the Girl Child’s Community Learning Programme, offering structured before-and-after-school support that combines core academics with life skills training to foster personal growth.
The curriculum strengthens foundational subjects while integrating counseling and development sessions. It also includes yoga, art, skill-building workshops, and mentorship activities, many of which are facilitated by IHCL volunteers.
Building confidence and a brighter future
In the first half of FY 2025–26 alone, IHCL employees contributed over 200 volunteering hours. The programme currently supports 402 girls from Classes 1 to 10 and has also welcomed 29 out-of-school girls who are preparing to enroll in formal education in the upcoming semester.
