The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) and UNICEF India have introduced TALASH, a program aimed at supporting the educational and personal development of tribal students in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) across 28 states and 8 union territories.
What is TALASH?
TALASH stands for Tribal Aptitude, Life Skills and Self-Esteem Hub, a national initiative designed exclusively for tribal students. This program, benefiting over 1.38 lakh students in EMRSs, provides a digital platform for students to discover their talents, receive career recommendations, acquire life skills, and access guidance from trained teachers.
Key Features of TALASH:
- Psychometric tests based on NCERT’s Tamanna initiative to determine students’ strengths.
- Career Cards offering suitable career suggestions post-assessment.
- Career counseling and life skills training including problem-solving and communication.
- Focus on emotional and mental development alongside academic growth.
Tools and Support for Students and Teachers
The platform offers psychometric tests to identify students’ strengths and interests, providing them with Career Cards recommending suitable career paths. Students will also receive career counseling and training in life skills such as problem-solving and communication to enhance their confidence and readiness for the future. Additionally, teachers are undergoing training through an e-learning system to better guide students.
Rollout Plan and Future Goals
TALASH will be gradually implemented in schools to ensure a seamless adoption process. The goal is to have the program fully operational in all EMRSs by the end of 2025. Continuous enhancements will be made to the platform based on feedback from students, teachers, and experts.
Mr. Ajeet Kumar Srivastava, Commissioner of NESTS, expressed, “TALASH signifies our commitment to unlocking the full potential of tribal students, bridging educational disparities, and nurturing future leaders.”
TALASH aligns with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing equal learning opportunities for all students and holistic growth.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams:
- TALASH program by NESTS and UNICEF supports tribal students in EMRSs for their education and personal growth.
- The initiative provides psychometric tests, career guidance, and life skills training to empower students.
- Teachers are also being trained to better assist students in their development.
- The program is in line with the goals of NEP 2020, aiming at equitable education and overall student development.
