TN seeks donations in kind for govt schools

After seeking monetary contribution from individuals, companies, and NGOs to develop State-run schools, the Tamil Nadu government, in a first, has sought electronic devices, sports equipment, and others which can be donated to these schools.

Recently, the School Education Department had launched an official portal where funds could be donated to improve the infrastructure of government schools. A senior official from the School Education Department said till date, 193 individuals, besides companies have given Rs 9.63 lakh monetary aid in the last one-anda-half years.

“Now, people could contribute specific requirements of schools including fresh electronic items such as computers, printers, and photocopying machines, sports items or electrical devices and LCDs and tube lights besides electric fans,” he said.

Pointing out that even construction materials to build compound walls and toilets in the schools could be provided, the official said that at present several IT companies, including Infosys, DELL and IBM were supporting government schools. He said people can also contribute books. Another senior official said that experts could also help imparting knowledge in specific subjects. “Expertise in a certain field could help students fill in for teachers who were unable to make it to class ,” he said, adding they could choose to volunteer in a school of their choice.

Claiming that financial contributions made through the portal are exempt from Income Tax under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act, 1961, the official added that all contributors will get a certificate called ‘Champion of Change’.