Berkadia Hyderabad has been partnering with Child Welfare & Holistic Organization for Rural Development (CHORD) since 2015 when we formed a formal secondary school named “Disha.” Together we have since grown the school from 80 students to 250! The students learn a core curriculum of English, Telugu, Math, Science and Social Studies.
Seeing the impact the school and program has had in the community, and across Berkadia, has been simply amazing; this year alone, we had nearly 60 Berkadians volunteering at the school. In order to ensure this type of school and educational opportunity remains available, Berkadia has committed to entirely finance a permanent building for the Disha-CHORD School, supported by a Telangana based NGO, CHORD.
The Project
Construction of the new school began in October on approximately 600 square meters of property, also financed by Berkadia, at Gopala Nagar. The new school will boast three levels, housing 20 classrooms including a library, staff room, assembly room, play area and science lab; the total student population is expected to reach 330 students. Sudipto Mukherjee, Country Head and Managing Director of Berkadia India told The Times of India, “Berkadia Foundation’s support of this project speaks volumes of Berkadia’s continued commitment to building an empowered community as well as contributing to society’s socio-economic well-being.”
This project will enable these students to secure future employment opportunities not otherwise available to them and allows them to become an active part of their community. Beyond providing financial assistance to support the construction, governance and management of the school, Berkadians volunteer their time to training the students and instill messaging as to why education is important to society and the community at large.
Berkadian’s Commitment
Berkadia has an extensive network of offices throughout the United States and all the Berkadians share the excitement experienced by their colleagues in Hyderabad when it comes to the school. Being a part of something this special is fulfilling and the ability to support Berkadia’s involvement in the Disha-CHORD school, in myriad ways by volunteering, donating or spreading the word is invaluable. Andrew Coleman, Senior Managing Director and Head of Berkadia Hotels & Hospitality, pledged a generous multi-year financial commitment that played a major role in moving forward with the new school. Andy said, “When I think about what makes Berkadia so special, it is how consistently we think about others and their needs. Even when the markets get tough, places like the Disha-CHORD school and the work being done there, remind me of just how blessed I am. I can’t wait to visit in person!”
We look forward to seeing the Disha-CHORD school come to life and supporting hundreds of students in the future.