DAVID SASSOON INDUSTRIAL SCHOOL
MAHIM (ESTD. 1939)
Total Capacity
400 Children
Age Group
12 to 18 yrs.
Children Cared
4,842
* Data since 2001
Located on a sprawling 6-acre campus in Mahim, Mumbai, David Sassoon Industrial School (DSIS) serves as a safe haven for boys aged 12 to 18 who are admitted by the Child Welfare Committee and are in need of care and protection under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015. These children are often rescued from neglect, child labour, trafficking, domestic violence, leaving home unannounced or other vulnerable situations. The institution offers a nurturing environment with shelter, formal education, vocational training, and emotional support to help them rebuild their lives. The well-equipped campus includes dormitories, classrooms, workshops, a dispensary, mental health services, a kitchen, and a large playground, providing holistic care and development opportunities for every child.
DSIS supports two vital functions:
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Reception Unit: For boys rescued from neglect, child labour, trafficking, domestic violence, leaving home unannounced or other vulnerable situations. A team of dedicated probation officers work tirelessly to trace families, assess home situations, and initiate rehabilitation or safe reintegration processes.
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Long-Term Care: For boys who have lost one or both parents, have been orphaned, or come from families facing acute poverty or crisis. These children find not only shelter and education but emotional safety, structure, and a second chance at childhood.
Our Services
Education
DSIS offers Marathi-medium formal education to boys across grades 1 to 10 through partnerships with local schools:
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Class 1–4: On-campus school affiliated with the BMC (unaided).
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Class 5–7: City of Los Angeles School (BMC-affiliated, off-campus).
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Class 8–10: Dadar Vidya Mandir School (BMC-affiliated, off-campus).
In addition, students appearing for the SSC exams are offered specialized coaching and academic support. Children showing academic promise are encouraged to pursue ITI (Industrial Training Institute) courses. The institution also provides access to computer education and art classes, equipping children with academic and creative tools to build a better future.
Vocational Training
Vocational skill-building is a core component of the program at DSIS, empowering boys with employable skills and certifications. Key vocational trades offered include:
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Carpentry
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Tailoring
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Turner & Fitter
These courses are certified by the Maharashtra Vocational Education Board. In addition, DSIS collaborates with NGOs to provide short-term vocational programs in:
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Housekeeping
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Wireman Training
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Mobile Repairing
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AC & Refrigeration Repair
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Plumbing
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Welding
These opportunities help boys build practical, income-generating skills and foster pathways to future employment.
Health & Well-Being
Medical Services
The institution runs an on-campus dispensary with:
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A full-time nurse
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A visiting medical officer
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10 indoor beds for children requiring short-term medical attention
DSIS ensures timely referrals to municipal hospitals for serious cases. The campus hosts regular health check-ups, vaccination drives, and awareness sessions to promote preventive healthcare among the children.
Mental Health Services
In partnership with Ashiyana NGO, DSIS runs an in-house Child Guidance Clinic offering comprehensive mental health services:
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Individual counselling
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Group therapy
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Sharing circles
The clinic is staffed by three trained psychologists and a social worker, with access to psychiatric referrals when needed. These services are available Monday to Friday, ensuring consistent psychological support and emotional well-being.
Rehabilitation & Repatriation
A dedicated team of Probation Officers monitor and support each child's progress. They:
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Maintain regular contact with children and families
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Coordinate with institutions and stakeholders from other states
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Facilitate family reintegration and repatriation processes
Their work ensures a child-centered, holistic approach to rehabilitation and long-term well-being.
Recreation & Emotional Well-being
DSIS encourages children to express themselves and build life skills through sports, art, and culture:
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Sports: Cricket, Volleyball, Kho-kho, Football, and Yoga
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Other Facilities: Gymnasium, Library and Recreational playground
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Activities: Art-based workshops, cultural festivals, summer camps, and fun fairs
A Space for Healing and Transformation
David Sassoon Industrial School is more than just a shelter—it is a transformative space that empowers children to grow, heal, and dream again. Through an integrated model of education, skills, care, and support, DSIS prepares boys to confidently re-enter society and lead dignified, independent lives.