MIDS Collaborative Study on School Management Committees (SMCs)
- During 2025–26, Ouvai Foundation collaborated with the Madras Institute of Development Studies (MIDS), one of India’s leading social science research institutions, to undertake a comprehensive study on the effectiveness of School Management Committees (SMCs) and their influence on children’s learning outcomes.
- The study spanned 10 focus blocks and engaged approximately 400 respondents, including SMC members, parents, teachers, and students. Grounded in the belief that community participation is fundamental to improving educational quality, the research sought to understand how school governance structures contribute to accountability, inclusiveness and better learning experiences for children.
- Through a combination of surveys, stakeholder interviews, and field observations, the study examined the functioning of School Management Committees, the awareness and engagement levels of committee members, the quality and frequency of SMC meetings, parental participation in school processes and the extent to which community voices shape school-level decision-making. Special attention was given to understanding how these governance mechanisms influence educational outcomes and create enabling environments for children’s learning.
- The research also explored the opportunities and challenges faced by SMCs in fulfilling their mandate, identifying gaps in participation, representation and capacity that may affect their effectiveness. By capturing perspectives from multiple stakeholders, the study provides a nuanced understanding of the relationship between community ownership and school performance.
- Beyond generating evidence, this collaboration reflects Ouvai Foundation’s commitment to strengthening the ecosystem surrounding children’s education. The findings are expected to inform policy dialogue, support evidence-based decision-making and contribute to the development of strategies that foster stronger school-community partnerships. Ultimately, the study aims to advance the vision of accountable, participatory and child-centered educational institutions where communities play an active role in shaping educational outcomes.
