New Delhi, March 31 (NationPress) On Wednesday, Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram will showcase the notable achievements of the Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) during the eighth Foundation Day celebration of the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), the governing body for these schools, as reported by an official on Tuesday.

"Since its establishment, NESTS has played a crucial role in broadening access to quality education for tribal students via the EMRS network. There has been remarkable advancement in improving infrastructure, bolstering academic support systems, and generating new opportunities for tribal youth," the statement remarked.

During his speech, Minister Oram is anticipated to emphasize significant initiatives and achievements of the EMRSs from the past year.

As of March 6, 499 EMRSs are operational nationwide, accommodating 156,564 students, according to the statement.

Through the EMRS initiative, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs reaffirms its dedication to empowering tribal communities through education, allowing students to excel academically while remaining connected to their cultural roots," the statement noted.

At the NESTS Foundation Day festivities at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in Delhi, students from EMRS Manipur will perform cultural displays that reflect the rich traditions and heritage of tribal communities.

Additionally, outstanding students from across the nation will be honored for their excellence in academics and extracurricular pursuits," the statement continued.

Other notable attendees include Durgadas Uikey, Minister of State for Tribal Affairs; Savitri Thakur, Minister of State for Women and Child Development; Faggan Singh Kulaste, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Welfare of SCs and STs; and Ranjana Chopra, Secretary of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

NESTS remains committed to enhancing educational opportunities for tribal communities throughout the country.

The organization is tasked with establishing, managing, and supporting EMRSs while pursuing initiatives that promote quality and holistic education for tribal students.

"There is a provision to establish EMRS in every block that has over 50 percent Scheduled Tribe (SC) population and at least 20,000 tribal individuals, as per the 2011 Census," the statement indicated.

NESTS has initiated its first direct recruitment drive for 10,391 positions through ESSE-2023. Selected staff have been assigned to EMRSs, and guest teachers are also engaged by State Societies to fill any vacancies that arise, ensuring that academic activities continue smoothly," it added.

All new EMRSs, each spanning 15 acres and accommodating 480 students from Classes 6 to 12, are designed with modern facilities," the statement highlighted.

The Eklavya Model Day Boarding Schools (EMDBS) have been integrated with EMRS as of April 29, 2022, the statement concluded.