Let them learn not earn

Sterling qualities of pride and self respect: Hasan’s story

Hasan, is without doubt a rising star. He lives with his parents and younger sister in one of the sprawling urban slums of Gurugram. He is an alert and attentive boy and his curious and eager temperament make the class more interesting. He and his family migrated from the outskirts of Bengal to the Saraswati Kunj slums of Gurugram, three years ago. When the Sukarya team first saw him, he was sifting materials from a heap of garbage. When they asked him if he wanted to study in their school, his answer surprised them. He quizzed, “Ma'am will you charge?” When we said no, it was a free service, he replied promptly, “In that case, I will study in your school and I will return the favour by teaching you Bengali”. 

The team had never met a child like this who was so self respecting. Indeed, he did end up teaching several of the team members basic Bengali. Hasan is now a popular student of EOW. After learning not only the basics of elementary education but also character building lessons, a significant change was noticed in the nature of his deeds. We were very delighted to hear his words, “Ma’am I know I pick rags, so when I come to class, I change my clothes and come. My class is like a temple for me”. The boy, full of and dreams and zest is not only studying to improve his life but playing the role of an agent of social change and motivating others to study.

Education on Wheels (EOW) is a unique programme where the school comes home, virtually to the doorstep of the student. Making the learning process exciting, novel and convenient, the EOW is a well-equipped bus which is mobile and it moves with teachers to different locations. It has on board computers, television and other essential education related materials.

The key objective of the project is to reach the vast majority of children who are living in vulnerable conditions and are unable to access education in a favourable learning environment. It is designed to enable non-school going children to acquire minimum knowledge and skills and mainstreaming them in formal schools.

Sukarya wishes to expand its outreach in urban slums helping children realise their potential. Your generous contribution would reach many more Hasans.