Malappuram: Mankada assembly constituency in Malappuram district has initiated a project to support girls in completing their degree courses. The project aims to assist girls who have discontinued their degree programs for various reasons. Mankada MLA Manjalamkuzhi Ali mentioned that this is the first time a constituency has implemented such a project. It is estimated that around 12 per cent of girls discontinue their degree courses in Malappuram district. Many students drop out to get married, according to the officials.

The project titled, Njangalum Collegilekku, under the women empowerment initiative of the MLA, plans to enrol around 100 students in the 2024-25 academic year. "We announced the project two weeks ago and have got 64 admissions by now. We provide degree courses in English, Sociology, and BCom through the distance education scheme at Sree Narayana Guru Open University. The classes will be hosted at the GEMS Arts and Science College at Ramapuram and the students can use the facilities at the college. The students will also be trained in improving communication skills, computer knowledge and vocational programmes,'' Manjalamkuzhi Ali said.

The students only need to pay the examination fee as per the project. A total of Rs 30 lakhs is expected to provide free education to 100 students under the project. They plan to amass the funds through various co-operative sector firms and individuals.