Access to quality education remains a significant challenge for many underprivileged communities, particularly in regions like Karnataka, where thousands of children are deprived of the essential resources and opportunities needed to realize their full potential. 

In these areas, education often becomes a distant dream due to a lack of infrastructure, trained teachers, and educational materials, leaving many young minds at a disadvantage from an early age.

Recognizing the urgent need to address these disparities, CapitaLand Hope Foundation (CHF), the philanthropic arm of CapitaLand Group, has forged a partnership with Pratham Education Foundation, one of India’s most respected non-governmental organizations dedicated to improving education for underserved communities. 

This collaboration is not just an initiative but a powerful commitment to transforming the educational landscape for over 3,000 children aged three to fourteen in Karnataka.

Through this partnership, CHF and Pratham aim to bridge the educational gap by providing these children with the tools, guidance, and support they need to thrive. 

This joint effort marks a significant milestone in the journey toward empowering young minds, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to break free from the cycle of poverty, and ultimately, creating a brighter, more equitable future for the next generation.

A Commitment to Education and Empowerment

At the heart of this partnership is the introduction of Pratham’s holistic learning program, "Hamara Gaon," into 12 underserved communities where children from two schools supported by the CapitaLand Hope School Programme reside. 

This initiative is not just about education—it’s about investing in the future of these communities, breaking the cycle of poverty, and cultivating a generation of knowledgeable and empowered individuals who can shape a better tomorrow.

CHF has committed a substantial donation to kickstart this transformative program, ensuring the first year’s funding is secured. This generous contribution will enable the implementation of the Hamara Gaon program in the new communities while also sustaining ongoing efforts in 50 communities across the Devanahalli and Kolar districts. 

Beyond financial support, this collaboration is a testament to the shared vision of both organizations: to uplift children through education and create a more equitable society.

Hands-On Efforts to Make a Difference

The announcement of this impactful partnership was marked by the CapitaLand International Volunteer Expedition (IVE), a three-day event from October 28 to 30, 2023, aimed at enhancing the facilities and engaging with students at the Government Kannada and English Medium Higher Primary School in Bangalore. 

Over 70 CapitaLand staff volunteers from six countries—India, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, United Kingdom, and Vietnam—came together to create a lasting impact on the lives of these students.

The volunteers brought new life to the school by painting vibrant murals in classrooms and common areas, upgrading the play area with a sandpit, and adding shelves and books to the reading room. These efforts created a more engaging and nurturing environment for the students, encouraging them to explore, learn, and grow through play and reading. 

Additionally, the volunteers organized CapitaLand's "Little Architect Programme" workshops, sparking the students' interest in architecture and nurturing their creativity—skills that will serve them well in their future endeavors.

Impact Created

The Government Kannada and English Medium Higher Primary School is one of three schools in India supported by the CapitaLand Hope School Programme, alongside the Government Hi-Tech Kannada and English Medium Higher Primary School in Bangalore and the Government Marathi Medium Higher Primary School in Pune.

CHF's commitment to these schools is evident in their contribution to improving the learning environments for nearly 1,300 students annually. This investment not only ensures safe and conducive learning spaces but also lays the foundation for a brighter future for these young minds.

The impact of the CapitaLand Hope School Programme extends beyond India, as it has supported the educational needs of underserved children from schools in China, India, and Vietnam. This global reach reflects CapitaLand’s unwavering dedication to empowering communities through education and creating lasting change.

Building a Brighter Future Together

This partnership is part of CapitaLand's broader #GivingAsOne global campaign, which, in 2023, brought together staff, tenants, business partners, and customers to uplift vulnerable communities across six countries. 

During the campaign, 35 activities were organized, contributing over 9,700 volunteer hours. For each hour volunteered, CHF pledged $20 to support education, health, and well-being initiatives, further amplifying the impact of these collective efforts.

At the conclusion of the #GivingAsOne 2023 campaign, CHF committed over $600,000 (INR 36 million) to various community projects, including $108,000 (INR 6.5 million) for the Hamara Gaon learning program. This significant contribution underscores CapitaLand’s commitment to creating positive, lasting change in the communities they serve.

Looking Ahead: A Future of Hope and Opportunity

The partnership between CapitaLand Hope Foundation and Pratham Education Foundation is a powerful example of the impact that can be achieved through collaboration and collective action. 

By combining their resources and expertise, these organizations are not only enhancing the learning experiences of thousands of children but also fostering a culture of giving and community engagement among CapitaLand's employees, tenants, and partners.

This initiative highlights CapitaLand’s deep commitment to corporate social responsibility and its determination to build resilient and thriving communities. Through projects like these, CapitaLand is paving the way for a brighter future for underserved children, empowering them with the knowledge and skills they need to reach their full potential and break the cycle of poverty.

In a world that continues to grapple with challenges such as inequality and limited access to quality education, initiatives like this serve as beacons of hope. They remind us that with collective effort, unwavering determination, and a shared vision, we can create a world where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.