A. Working with Community
← B. Working with Government School Structure
A Community Based Education Program in Bhopal
An innovative program to address educational needs and prevent dropout from schools was set up in Bhopal, where over 20% of the population resides in slums and impoverished Bastis. The majority of children in these bastis struggle with basic literacy.
In response, we have launched a community based education program, supported by Azim Premji Foundation to establish Learning and Activity Centres for children in selected bastis. The Centres are facilitated by local youth known as Chote Guruji, a majority of whom are girls, and they offer a safe space and holistic learning environment for the young basti children.
Equipped with basic educational materials, including books for small libraries, science kits for clubs, puppetry, and other engaging activities, the centres operate after school hours. They transform community spaces like verandahs, Mandirs or school rooms into vibrant hubs where children engage in playful learning, storytelling, and interactive games.
Key Features of the Activity and Learning Centers (ALCs)
Community-Led Approach:
Our Learning and Activity Centers thrive on community support and are managed by local youth, fostering inclusivity among girls and boys. Mothers participate actively, witnessing their children's educational journey and contributing to the centers' operations.
Empowering Youth:
The ‘Chote Guruji’ dedicate voluntary time and effort to support the Centre activities and mentor young children. In return, they receive academic support and lifeskill counselling from the program team. Through this community work the Chote Guruji gain understanding of local problems and build confidence and a sense of dignity. They serve as mentors, guiding young children and honing their own teaching abilities. Presently, over 500 Chote Guruji run the 60 ALCs in the Bhopal city, Panna and Khategaon Block of Dewas district. They provide learning support to over 1700 young children in their Bastis/villages.
Holistic Learning:
Catering to children up to 12 years old, the LACs not only impart academic skills but also instill teamwork and cooperation through art, craft, and interactive activities like Puppet Show, making learning an enjoyable experience. On an average 20 to 30 children come to each LAC on a regular basis.
Maternal Support:
Empowering mothers in the community are also involved to participate actively in their children’s educational journey. They are oriented to support and create conducive learning environment for children at home, and set up a reading corner to promote regular study habits. We provide guidance to make simple learning materials, such as language and number cards, to aid their children's learning.
Adolescent Health Focus:
Addressing the health concerns of girls and women in Bastis, our trained resource team offers guidance on nutrition and menstruation-related health issues.
Join us in making a difference:
You can volunteer as a Resource Person for Training and Mentoring Chote Gurujis. Or you can help to develop training materials in Health & Nutrition, Science and Maths etc. You can help to establish new Learning and Activity Centers through identifying space and resources. You can help to raise funds for a 'Training and Coordination Centre' in Bhopal to train and empower our youth volunteers and community leaders, who will mentor dropouts and weak children in slums bastis.
