DSS saves three important community centres from closure and secures their services for years to come.
DSS has stepped in to secure the future of three education centres in Kolkata. They provide supplementary schooling for 260 children and vocational training and literacy support for more than 100 adults.
The centres were founded 25 years ago by the Irish charity Friends of Calcutta (FOC). They have supported generations of children and young people on their educational path; some former pupils have gone on to university and into professional careers.
After FOC faced ongoing administrative difficulties and had worked for 15 months without sufficient funds to pay staff, the organisation had to consider closing the centres. In a last attempt to preserve the services, it turned to DSS.
FOC’s founders had been inspired by the work of Dr Jack Preger (1930–2026). This made DSS a natural partner, as it is committed to carrying on his values and legacy.
According to Srividia, former chair of the FOC board in India, the centres provide early childhood education for children aged three to six, preparing them to enter state schools. They also support pupils throughout their school years, offer girls and women training in tailoring and run evening literacy classes for adults.
The centres are located in Tangra, Topsia and Khidderpore and serve communities close to existing DSS programme areas.
After a careful assessment of the centres’ impact and the necessary due diligence, the DSS board approved the transfer. DSS officially took over responsibility on 16 April, shortly after the Bengali New Year.
Jaydeep says: “These centres have served some of Kolkata’s most disadvantaged communities for more than two and a half decades. FOC’s commitment and values are closely aligned with our own, and we are honoured by the trust placed in us. We are determined to build on their work and ensure that these communities continue to receive good educational support.”
The transfer preserves services that have opened up educational opportunities, developed skills and strengthened community development for more than a generation.