ABOUT US

ESO KICHU KORI (EKK) is a non-profit organization committed to providing access to higher education for academically gifted students from extremely low-income families. While many organizations focus on literacy and primary education, EKK takes a different path—advocating for long-term, progressive change by empowering underprivileged students to pursue advanced studies. Our mission is to help these students realize their full potential, prepare for meaningful careers, and contribute to the broader development of society.

We’ve all heard stories of bright students excelling in public examinations, only to see their academic journeys cut short due to financial hardship. One student may secure a top rank in a medical entrance exam while his father earns a modest living running a tea stall. Another might score above 80% in the Higher Secondary exams while working in a bidi factory to support their family. These stories are far too common and underscore the urgent need for support.

Although a few kind-hearted individuals have tried to help, there was no sustained, organized effort to address this systemic issue. Recognizing this gap, EKK was born out of a shared vision—to stand by these deserving yet financially challenged students. The organization was formally established as a registered society under the West Bengal Societies Act in February 2007.

To fulfill our mission, we implement a range of project-based assistance programs targeting high school and professional education. Our selection process is entirely merit-based, with no consideration of caste or religion. Support is extended solely to students who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need.

At its core, EKK seeks to drive the social and economic upliftment of marginalized communities. We aim to foster an environment where education is not just accepted but championed as a key driver of progress. Through our ongoing efforts to expand educational opportunities and promote social equity, we strive to enable sustainable development for future generations.

THE STORY BEHIND

The idea of ‘Eso Kichu Kori’ (EKK) was born in 2006 on the then-popular social networking platform Orkut. It was one of the first organizations in Kolkata to harness the power of social media to take meaningful action for society.

Through research, the founding members of EKK discovered a disturbing trend: the highest rate of school dropouts in the state occurred just after students completed their secondary education. This alarming insight struck a chord with several like-minded individuals. What began as an online conversation soon transformed into real-world action. In February 2007, EKK was officially registered under the West Bengal Society Registration Act, stepping beyond the digital realm to engage directly with the community.

EKK’s mission has always been to foster long-term, supportive relationships with meritorious students from financially challenged backgrounds. Our efforts are centered around two core initiatives—‘MEDHA’ and ‘SOPAN’.

Under the ‘MEDHA’ project, we identify academically gifted but financially struggling students soon after the results of their secondary examinations are announced. These students are provided with books, stationery, and other essential educational resources. Beyond material support, we also offer continuous mentorship and guidance, helping them stay focused and motivated as they progress in their academic journeys.

The ‘SOPAN’ project supports deserving students who secure admission to government colleges in fields like medicine or engineering. These are students with immense potential, and we stand by them to ensure financial hardship doesn’t derail their aspirations.

Our commitment goes beyond providing temporary aid—we aim to build lifelong bonds with our students. Over time, many of them have come forward to give back, contributing to the organization that once supported them. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, EKK remained active and resilient, continuing its mission without pause.

Every year, we celebrate EKK’s Foundation Day through a special event called ‘BORENYO’, where we honor an individual who has made a significant impact in the field of education for underprivileged but talented students.

We come from diverse walks of life—different professions, backgrounds, age groups, and regions—but we are united by a common purpose: to create positive change in society. And we do it together.

We’re always looking for more helping hands. If you share our vision and passion, we invite you to register as a volunteer and be a part of this journey.