The Surat regional office of The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) yesterday hosted a programme where pending school fees of the children of artisans hit by the industry slowdown were disbursed directly to the schools. The programme took place under the banner of Project Pratibha of GJEPC, an initiative to encourage students to look at careers in the industry.

GJEPC Regional Chairman, Gujarat, Dinesh Navadiya gave a brief background to the project, and explained why the industry had taken the initiative. Navadiya pointed out that due to the slowdown over the past 8-10 months, many manufacturing units had closed operations or reduced production. As a result, a number of artisans lost their jobs or were receiving lower salaries, making it difficult for them to manage to pay school fees for their children. Since this could put the future of many students at risk, GJEPC came forward to extend support to those affected.

A survey was conducted by an informal group of volunteers under the banner of Diamond Industry Career Foundation (DICF) and Ratna Abhushan Welfare Trust, Surat over the past few months. Families of artisans who required support in terms of school fees were identified and schools were asked to provide details of the amounts outstanding. More than 140 schools and approximately 300 students were identified by GJEPC as needing help to continue with their education. GJEPC distributed cheques drawn in favour of the schools for about Rs. 16.70 lacs through Gem & Jewellery National Relief Foundation (GJNRF).

GJEPC officials said that the trade was deeply appreciative of the efforts and support of DICF, Ratna Abhushan Welfare Trust and GJNRF to this noble cause.

The programme was attended by 50+ schools, 200+ parents and 100+ students.