A brighter tomorrow: Mumbai gets a new model for inclusive public schooling
In a powerful example of how collaboration between civic bodies and grassroots organisations can reshape public education, the Parmanandwadi MPS English Medium School in Parel was formally inaugurated this week, signalling a fresh start for students in the heart of Mumbai.
The newly refurbished school is the result of a partnership between the
Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation
(BMC) and Enrich Lives Foundation (ELF), a Mumbai-based non-profit committed to improving the quality of education in municipal schools. With new infrastructure, trained teachers, and an emphasis on both academic excellence and holistic development, the school is already sparking hope among its young learners.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Prachi Jambhekar, Deputy Municipal Commissioner (Education & Planning, BMC), lauded the initiative and encouraged students to dream big.
'Each flame lit today is a future ignited,' she shared. Her message struck a chord with the children, many of whom shared how excited they now feel about coming to school.
The upgraded campus offers more than just cosmetic improvements. Under ELF's stewardship, the school has implemented active learning techniques, invested in trained educators, and introduced extracurricular programming aimed at nurturing curiosity and self-confidence in students.
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'We're not just repainting walls,' said ELF Founder Rashmi Balwani. 'We're reimagining how learning happens—making it engaging, relevant, and empowering.
'
What makes this initiative particularly impactful is its replicability. ELF plans to scale this model to other BMC schools, demonstrating that sustainable change in public education is possible, with the right intent, collaboration, and community involvement.
As one of the students summed it up: 'School feels like a second home now. I want to learn everything and become someone my family is proud of.'
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