As part of their LEI classes (Leadership, Entrepreneurship and Indian Studies), grade 11 Avasara students covered numerous modules on Income Inequality, Gender Inequality and Diversity & Inclusion. It was the case studies explored in these classrooms that uncovered not only the impact of discrimination on the society but also a spark within these young minds to do something about it.
After spending almost an year learning in depth about these issues the students participated in YLAC’s (Young Leaders for Active Citizenship) national level incubator competition. A group of eight Avasara students ranked third and procured seed funding of Rs. 50000 for their dream project.
This gave birth to Project Vruddhi, an initiative aimed towards shifting mindsets about the importance of primary education and contributing to the holistic development of young children.
Over the months, Project Vruddhi has collaborated with two community centres- Astitva Learning centre and Bal Bhavan. The focus is to provide academic support, skill development sessions and unwinding activities to children in primary grades.
Most sessions are a thoughtful compilation of games, poems, activities and read alouds. Given their age, this is the best medium to impart learning that is engaging and stays with them.
The rule is also to keep some time aside for unwinding. This part of the session brings out fun activities such as origami, colouring, drawing and dance!
It is definitely also not a surprise when students double the capacity show up, or times when only a few students are able to make it. The team has gotten flexible with the different numbers and the unforeseen challenges coming along the way.
Project Vruddhi may not be able to define its success quantitatively as yet. But beyond the numbers, they have undeniably done a wonderful job. If success was about building a safe learning space, encouraging participation, sharing smiles and the countless joyful high-fives at the gate - Project Vruddhi had achieved it all!
While it has been a combination of seamless collaboration, robust planning and lots of creative thinking, the secret to this change-making initiative’s consistent work are its values. The team firmly believes in and practices empathy, persistence & reflection.
“One of the most beautiful things I’ve seen in my journey is what confidence does to children. It makes them want to learn, teach, trust and share their thoughts. That’s exactly why we do what we do,” says Ashiya, a member of Project Vruddhi.
Written by Ankita Kumavat
Ankita wrote this article as a participant of the Media-Makers Fellowship's April'24 cohort.
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