With a view to ensure academic excellence through quality and innovative teaching methods, Wockhardt Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation known for its committed service to the poor, weak, and needy, has launched its first ‘E-learning’ programme in Thane district. The aim of E-learning programme is to make learning a fun-filled and interactive experience.

The facilities have been set up at two places in Thane district – one at Ambiste Ashram School in Ambiste village in Wada and the second one at Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Ashram School in Shirole village in Bhiwandi.

The programme was launched by Dr Habil Khorakiwala, founder chairman & Group CEO, Wockhardt Limited; Kalyan Banerjee, ex-president, Rotary International and Ajay Gupta, district governor, Rotary Club.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Habil Khorakiwala, stated, “Schools in rural India are deprived of quality infrastructure. Lack of teachers in quality and quantity is another major issue which results in high dropouts, absenteeism and reduced interest in students. Innovative methods such as e-learning, which includes a scientifically developed syllabus, will make learning interesting, engaging and an enjoyable experience for the students.”

Kalyan Banerjee, added, “Increasing numbers of schools are realizing the importance of adapting with innovative methods to grab students’ interest. E-learning for school kids is one such measure. Teachers are glad to have interactive methods at hand to impart knowledge. For rural students, it is a great way to get themselves acclimated to the e-methods that the world is adapting.”

Dr Huzaifa Khorakiwala, trustee & CEO, Wockhardt Foundation, Nafisa Khorakiwala, chairperson, Wockhardt Foundation and Samina Khorakiwala, CEO, Khel Khel Mein, Wockhardt Foundation were also present at the launch.

E-learning is another step by Wockhardt Foundation to cater to and support rural development in India. The programme is developed by quality e-learning vendors and qualified instructional designers.

The programme is designed for children from Standard one to 10 for all subjects. The curriculum is as prescribed and followed by the Maharashtra State board. The whole syllabus is made into an audio-visual format in Marathi and English languages. The audio visual format comprises an interactive question bank and is designed with a child friendly interface.

The hardware to run these programmes (comprising of a computer, LCD projector, speakers, screen, inverter, battery, and a keyboard) is provided by Wockhardt Foundation.