From Chalkboards to Change: Dabur, Ennoble Transform Silvassa’s Prathmik Gujarati Shala into a Model of Holistic Learning
Breathes new life into infrastructure, impacting over 300 students
Silvassa, 06 August 2025: In a meaningful step towards transforming rural education,
Dabur India Limited, in partnership with Ennoble Social Innovation Foundation, today
unveiled the newly transformed Prathmik Gujarati Shala, Shalkharapada, Silvassa. As
part of the redevelopment, an aging government primary school has now been reimagined
and converted into a vibrant, future-ready learning space, including a new library for the first
time!
A School with Roots—Now Growing Stronger
Established over four decades ago, Prathmik Gujarati Shala has long been a cornerstone for
primary education in Silvassa. However, like many government schools in the region, it
struggled with deteriorating infrastructure, poor sanitation, and minimal learning resources.
According to the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER), a significant number of
schools across India still lack functional toilets, adequate classroom conditions, or access to
libraries and science labs—challenges that often hinder student attendance, motivation, and
outcomes. In this context, the Silvassa school’s transformation serves as a beacon of what’s
possible through committed collaboration.
From Problems to Possibilities: Interventions and Outcomes
This transformation focused on holistic development and learning-friendly spaces. Key
infrastructure and educational interventions include:
Physical Revamp & Safety
Renovation of 6 classrooms with fresh flooring, plastering, and vibrant painting
Installation of 12 new windows for better ventilation and natural light
Upgraded ramp and stairway access, prioritizing safety and inclusivity
Complete renovation of 4 toilets, including units for Children With Special Needs
(CWSN)
Clean drinking water facility and structured handwashing station
Refurbished main gate and enhanced internal pathways for child safety
Learning & Engagement
New green boards, storage units, fans, and lighting in all classrooms
A dedicated Mini Science Lab with VR tools and robotics kits to enable
experiential learning
Creation of a well-stocked library and a fun-filled Brain Gym area
Age-appropriate classroom furniture and displays to enhance engagement
Sustainability & Environment
Rainwater harvesting system installed
Miyawaki forest patch and tree plantations for microclimate and awareness
Structured waste management system promoting hygiene and eco-consciousness
This project contributes meaningfully to India’s Sustainable Development Goals:
SDG 4: Quality Education — by ensuring inclusive, equitable learning spaces
SDG 6: Clean Water & Sanitation — through hygiene and drinking water systems
SDG 13: Climate Action — with green initiatives like rainwater harvesting and tree
plantations
The outcomes are already visible:
300+ students will now enjoy a dignified and stimulating learning environment.
Hands-on experiments and STEM engagement will be part of daily classroom life.
Improved sanitation will lead to better health, reduced absenteeism, and
increased enrolment interest from nearby communities.
Children will have access to a library for the first time—making reading a joyful
habit.
“Earlier, the school felt dull. Now, I love going to school because we can read books and try
science activities. I want to become a doctor,” said a Class 5 student, beaming with pride.
Teachers share how student attendance and participation will improve in just a few
weeks—reaffirming how a child-friendly environment drives learning gains.
Mr. Chirag Bhandari, CEO of Ennoble, shared: “At Ennoble, transformation means building
spaces where learning thrives, students feel valued, and teachers are proud. This project
with Dabur is proof that scalable, high-impact school transformation is possible when intent
and investment meet. Our model schools are not the end—they’re the beginning of how
India’s public education can truly evolve. We aim to take this movement to hundreds more
schools across the country.”
Dabur India Limited’s CSR Head Mr. Byas Anand said: “This initiative reflects our CSR
philosophy of long-term community impact through education, health, and sustainability.
Through this partnership with Ennoble, we are not just upgrading buildings—we are
upgrading possibilities. As a brand that has been committed to health and well-being for over
140 years, this project reflects our belief that well-being begins with a safe, inspiring, and
inclusive learning environment. We’re proud to be part of this transformation.”