Private educational institutions across levels have come together to form an umbrella organisation to support schools and colleges during crises and help them "operate without fear".
The Association for Welfare of Private Educational Institutions (AWPEI) was formed on the premise that institutions should not have to face a crisis alone but should have a support network to turn to.
"Educational institutions are expected to respond to every crisis, but when it strikes, who stands with the private institutions, educators, students and their families affected? That question became the foundation of the association. We hope that no educational institution ever has to face a circumstance alone," said Sucharita Roychowdhury, secretary, AWPEI.
The association brings together principals, teachers, directors and education leaders and connects them with healthcare professionals, mental health experts, legal advisers and other partners who can provide timely support.
The inaugural ceremony at the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) was attended by heads of leading city schools, representatives of private colleges, and legal and healthcare professionals.
"The AWPEI is not limited to any particular board. It brings together affiliated and unaffiliated institutions under ICSE, CBSE, state boards and other recognised bodies, as well as colleges, on a common platform. Our objective is not commercial gain but the welfare and development of educational institutions and the larger community," said association president M.P. Rozario.
"If a school needs help on legal or health issues or counselling services, we have people on the advisory committee to assist," Rozario said.
In recent years, schools have faced public outrage over accidents on their premises. Such incidents can quickly escalate on WhatsApp groups, leaving schools and educators increasingly isolated.
Roychowdhury, principal of a south Calcutta school, recalled an incident in September 2023 when a Class X student fell from the school rooftop and the grieving family held the school responsible.
"The AWPEI is a collective platform for collaboration, empowerment and meaningful change. Our aim is to bring institutions and educators together, share knowledge and best practices, and address the evolving needs of students, teachers and the wider educational community. By working together, we can create a stronger, more inclusive and future-ready education system in Bengal," said Imran Zaki, the association's vice-president.
The association will work across four verticals: mental health; physical health and well-being; legal support; and educational, cultural and sports initiatives.
"When we train our team or staff on the Pocso (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) Act, we tell them that non-compliance can have grave consequences. But schools are not always aware of the legal nuances, and guidance can be helpful," said John Bagul, principal of IEM Public School, Salt Lake.
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