Manjushree Vidyapith School

Empowering the Future: Bridging the Digital Divide at Manjushree Vidyapith
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The Challenge

Bringing reliable and sustainable internet connectivity to a remote orphanage and school located in the rugged terrains of Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India

Project

Manjushree Vidyapith School, Tawang

Duration

2020– Present

Members

Volunteers from MUFT Internet, Manjushree Vidyapith staff, and local community members.

Life without Internet

Before the internet, the students and staff at Manjushree Vidyapith struggled to access modern educational tools, training materials and essential communications with global donors. Their efforts to maintain contact with supporters were hindered by the region’s poor connectivity. Administrative tasks were labor-intensive, and teachers had to work with outdated resources.

Our Association

The school’s unwavering commitment to nurturing underprivileged children inspired us to bring connectivity to their doorstep. From understanding their unique challenges to designing and implementing a robust network, our partnership has been a testament to how technology can empower even the most isolated communities.

Connectivity Roadblocks

Electricity

Lack of stable grid resulting in, extra steps for a solar + battery deployed networks.

Poor road access

Limited road infrastructure adds significant delays and logistical hurdles

Extreme Weather

Mountainous terrains with extreme weather conditions affects hardware.

Personnel

Difficult to find skilled personnel to troubleshoot and manage the network.

Affordability

Low budgets for the project development and sustained network maintenance.

Hardware Availability

It takes weeks to source equipment from the cities when things break down.

Overcoming challenges

Our approach to enabling and sustaining Internet access at the Manjushree

Need Analysis

We engaged with the school administration to understand their requirements, including stable donor communication, digital learning tools for students, and efficient administrative operations.

Site survey

Detailed assessments of terrain, weather, and line-of-sight challenges helped us identify a nearby mountain peak for the network setup.

Network Planning

We designed a wireless system leveraging a fiber-connected tower and optimized for Tawang’s extreme conditions, ensuring durability and reliability.

Implementation

Equipment was transported through treacherous trails, installed with precision, and tested rigorously to ensure a stable connection.

Training and Handover

The school staff was trained in basic troubleshooting and network management, enabling them to maintain the system independently.

Monitor and Support

Remote monitoring ensures continuous performance, with prompt technical support addressing any issues caused by terrain or weather.

Sustaining Connectivity

Comprehensive training enabled the vidyapith staff and community members to manage and troubleshoot the network effectively, ensuring its long-term sustainability.

Outcomes

After bringing Internet access to Hanle Space Observatory

Enhanced Learning

Schools in Hanle now have access to online educational resources, creating opportunities for growth and development.

Improved Research

The observatory can now collaborate with global scientists in real-time and share data seamlessly, accelerating discovery.

Improved Access

The local community can access tele-health, communication and  explore opportunities previously out of reach.

Future Plans

After bringing Internet access to Hanle Space Observatory

Expansion

Extend reliable internet connectivity to other schools and remote communities in the region.

Skill Development

Introduce advanced digital literacy programs for students, teachers, and staff.

Fostering Growth

Collaborate with the school to integrate more digital tools into their education and operations, enhancing learning and administrative efficiency.