Apna Skool, Migrant Labour Project
Apna Skool, Migrant Labour Project Jagrati Bal Vikas Samiti, Kanpur U. P Report: May - Aug 2012 Apna Skool, Migrant Labour Project (MLP), (which is part of a voluntary organization in Kanpur, JagritiBal Vikas Samiti), is a network of schools for children of migrant labourers at construction sites and brickkilns in and around Kanpur, U.P. The Apna skools are generally run from 15th October to 15th June every year in the brick kilns and construction sites at various parts of Kanpur city, Uttar Pradesh. This is also a period when brick-making activity takes place and construction activities are in full swing. Currently there are in our rolls xxx children that includes (some who to higher classes either at Swami Vivekananda Vidyalaya at Lodhar that is run by Jagriti as well as other schools and colleges in Kanpur, keeping continuing programs for them) and about 450 students at 20 Apna Skool centres, of which about 45 % students are girls. Apart from education, Apna Skool activities include: Nutrition: Wholesome meals at every centre, made possible through a grant from Mala Foundation, Belgium Basic Health Care School uniforms for all and sweaters in winter every year Excursion trip every year Regular Teachers meeting every month and teachers training workshop twice a year Periodic interaction with the parents of Apna Skool students Vocational –Training for older children and alumni of Apna Skool The Apna Skool library has around 1500 books ( Story books , painting books, Science stories ) which are circulated in every centre to encourage the joy of reading among the students Short films( entertaining and educative) are shown at all the centres periodically Apart from regular teaching lessons, Apna Skool parivar believes in over-all development of the child. In the past four months (May- Augustl 2012) we have encouraged the students to participate in the yearly Science fair, taken them on educational and excursion trips etc. Our attempts for children to imbibe Scientific curiosity, we have made liberal use of material devolped by Arvind Gupta. His fun inspired collection of experiments to understand concepts inscience has become a regular activity at all Apna Skool centers. We take this opportunity to thank Asha for Education, Silicon Valley chapter and Mala Foundation, Belgium for major financing of the Apna Skool activities,. Additional support from AID Portland, VSEI, Canada, See Your Impact and many individual donors have been vital in carrying out our activities. . A report of activities conducted during the months of May, June, July and August 2012 along with the student strength and other highlights is given herein.
HIGHLIGHTS Recently promulgated Right to Education (RTE) act that makes basic education for all a possible dream realized soon. Apna Skool parivar makes efforts to bring this to the notice of everyone and intervene with the Government School system to make it operative. We look forward to the possibility that most of our children will be enrolled in the Government schools near by and persuade the authorities to start Neighbourhood schools, where no Govt school exist. All private schools are expected to admit 25% of their capacity to children of economically weaker sections, starting this year in Iclass 1 and progressively more classes in later years. We wish to make use of this option to extend our efforts. Indeed in most places private schools have not yet accepted this responsibility and our efforts to persuade them will continue. In these circumstances, Apna Skool will continue supplementary sessions of learning for these children, so that they are smoothly integrated into mainstream education. We are pleased that 40 erstwhile students of Apna Skool system have advanced to levels of High School or college, thanks to our continuing scholarship program. Five have become skilled personnel in various vocations and become full fledged wage earners in the society. Apna Skools have on their roll about 600 children, receiving their primary education, notwithstanding the migration handicap. We notice that several children who have been attending Apna Skool attempt to continue their schooling in their village schools ,aided by our co-ordinators (Shri B N Sharma and Shri L K Shukla) who go to their villages and help their enrollment in the local schools. Further there are many places children by themselves got admitted to schools, having learnt the importance of continuity in Schooling.
APNA SKOOL REPORT (May –August 2012)
Functional centres of "Apna Skool" in May. 2012 Total No. of Students
S.N Name of Centre
Name of Teacher
Centre Timing
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Dhamikheda (2 Centre) Panki Power House Panki Padhav Tatiyaganj-1 Apna Skool Tatiyaganj-2 Apna Skool Kalra-1 Apna Skool Saran Lodhar Apna Skool Vishnu Apna Skool (2 Centre) Mera Avon Apna Skool
1-Manju ji 2- Sunita Ji 1- Laxmi ji 1- Hardas ji 2- Renu Ji 1- Parnita Ji 1- Nirmla ji 1- Pradeep Ji 1- Prachi 1- Yashoda Ji 1- Jayprakash 2- Ranjana 1- Raksha Ji 1- Mohit Dixit
8:30 7:30 3:00 10:00 10:00 8:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 8:00 9:00
to to to to to to to to to to to
12:30 12:30 7:00 3:30 3:30 1:30 12:30 11:00 2:00 1:30 2:30
56 30 28 27 26 28 24 7 34 24 16
Murari Apna Skool (2 Centre)
1-Najma Ji
8:00
to
1:30
29
Badhawan Apna Skool Kisan Nagar
1- Pushpa Ji 1- Hardas ji
9:00 10:00
to to
1:00 1:00
20 19
15
Maharajpur Apna Skool
1- Shiv Om
9:00
to
2:30
26
16
Rautepur (Bhola B.K)
1- Nidhi Pal
2:00
to
4:00
9
17
Ankit Apna Skool
1- Himanshu Ji
9:30
to
2:30
20
Total Number of Students
423
Annual Examination (10 th to 15th May 2012) It was time for the year end examinations and in all Apna Skool centres tests were administered to class 1, 2 and 4. [class 3 and 5 children are to take part in the NIOS (National Institute of Open Schools) certified exam ]. Children responded enthusiastically in taking the tests and showcasing their achievement.
Educational Excursion (23 May 2012)
This year’s educational excursion took all Apna Skool children to Bithoor, a historically important heritage sight on the banks of River Ganga in the neighbourhood. Sites visited were: Boat ride on River Ganga Baji Rao Peshwa palace Sudanshu Ashram, where a 100 ft long cave is located Sainyi Darbar Freedom fighter Rani Lakshmi Bai lived in the palace built for her by Peshwa Baji Rao at Bithoor on the banks of River Ganga. The majestic palace that nurtured young Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi is a historic monument and the children were told of her valiant battle against British that initiated the Freedom movement in the country. Children read about the famous cave temples at Ajanta and Ellora in their text books. For them to see a cave temple of Sudanshu Ashram, where a 100 ft deep cave is situated turned out to be an educative experience, as Teachers explained the significance of cave dwelling for early man and the same as a recluse for contemplating Yogis later. At the end of the excursion children were given fruits and sweets at the Sanyi Ashram, a holy centre of pilgrimage.
Distribution of Report Card (25/05/12 to 30/05/12) In all centres the year end Report cards were distributed during this week and children and their parents got to know the level of achievement at the end academic ‘year’. This was a moment of great joy as they clutch the Report Cards with them as evidence of their schooling. Teachers got an opportunity to interact with the parents and used it to drive home the importance of Schooling to grateful parents assembled for the occasion.
Cultural Evening This was also an occasion to showcase cultural talents of the children and children enacted short dramas, recited poems, they had learnt as well as ones they themselves composed, skits with social messages, prepared with aid from the Teachers and volunteers, folk and group dances, story telling as well as Jokes and Riddles.
Prizes for best achievers In order to encourage talent and inspire good performers, the top scorers in each centre were awarded Prizes by way of children story books.
Feedback
The occasion served to get feedback from the parents. Many parents emphasized that their children have been benefited by their ability to read and write and along with that have picked up laudable good habits and behavior.
Honouring the Teachers A substantial credit for the project should go to the Teachers, who interact with the children and impart the skills and influence them in many ways positively. On this occasions teachers were formally thanked
and Vijaya Didi performed for them a traditional Tilak ceremony, adorning their fore heads with kumkum /chandan tilak and offering flowers.
Dr Ravikumar and Vijaya Didi discuss with bhatta residents on Family Planning. Accompanied by Vija Didi Dr Ravikumar, a family planning expert held a motivational meeting with the parents of Apna Skool children in several centres and other residents at the Bhatta, telling them on the advantage of Family planning on their health and the wisdom in a well nourished limited family. They were told that it will be good to make use of the Government schemes to get themselves undergo safe sterilization proceedures available in their own village (Hamirpur dist.UP; districts in Bihar, Assam etc.) primary and secondary health centres .
Visitors Dr Shivam Tripathi, Civil Engg Dept IITK and Mr Saswat Sahoo and Mr Bharatendu (Delhi)
This months visitors included Dr Shivam Tripathi, Civil Engg Dept IITK (who will join Apna Skool team as in charge of the project while Dr Pranab Mohapatra will be away in the US for a couple of years and his friends from Delhi Mr Saswat Sahoo and Mr Bharatendu, who are involved in development of solar lamps. They interacted with the children, who with great enthusiasm demonstrated their Science projects and Science driven simple toys. Impressed with their curiosity the visitors explained them importance of energy for our lives and how sun can be useful source for our energy needs. They told them simple products such as Solar cookers, Solar lamps, that do not need either electricity or other fuels, such as coal, kerosene or petrol. That solar lamps can provide light where there is no electricity, such as their hutments in the Bhattas.
Functional centres of "Apna Skool" in june 2012 Total No. of Students
S.N Name of Centre
Name of Teacher
Centre Timing
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Dhamikheda (2 Centre) Panki Power House Panki Padhav Tatiyaganj-1 Apna Skool Tatiyaganj-2 Apna Skool Kalra-1 Apna Skool Saran Lodhar Apna Skool Vishnu Apna Skool (2 Centre) Mera Avon Apna Skool
1-Manju ji 2- Sunita Ji 1- Laxmi ji 1- Hardas ji 2- Renu Ji 1- Parnita Ji 1- Nirmla ji 1- Pradeep Ji 1- Prachi 1- Yashoda Ji 1- Jayprakash 2- Ranjana 1- Raksha Ji 1- Mohit Dixit
8:30 7:30 7:30 10:00 10:00 8:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 8:00 9:00
to to to to to to to to to to to
12:00 12:30 12:30 3:30 3:30 1:30 12:30 11:00 2:00 1:30 2:30
56 35 35 13 27 28 18 7 41 22 21
Murari Apna Skool (2 Centre)
1-Najma Ji
8:00
to
1:30
23
Badhawan Apna Skool Kisan Nagar
1- Pushpa Ji 1- Hardas ji
9:00 10:00
to to
1:00 1:00
20 19
15
Maharajpur Apna Skool
1- Shiv Om
9:00
to
2:30
26
16
Rautepur (Bhola B.K)
1- Nidhi Pal
2:00
to
4:00
9
17
Ankit Apna Skool
1- Himanshu Ji
9:30
to
2:30
20
420 Total Number of Students Tamsaha Apna Skool had summer holidays during this month.
Scholarship supported Apna Skool Alumni become Graduates Sanjay – B.Sc.
Satyanarayan – B.Com
Sharda – B.A
It is a proud moment for Apna Skool that this year there are three erstwhile Apna Skool children, who have earned their graduation. Notwithstanding the handicap of being first generation learners, children of migrant brick kiln workers from Chattisgarh, they have slowly and surely made a progress in their education that will make them responsible citizens and look forward to better career prospects.
World Environment Day (June 5 2012)
Apna Skool Teachers told children about the need to protect the environment for our own secure future and how important it is to have forests. The tendency to cut trees to make way for various construction activities, particularly in urban centres have reduced the tree cover significantly. Each centre participated in tree planting (Vriksharopan) and resolved to nurture trees, so planted. Children
were asked to write TEN sentences of relevance to Environment as Group Exercise in those centres where there are older children.
Vocational Training (1 June – 15 June) At Dhamikhera, Panki panki Padhao, and Tatiyaganj centres vocational training activities were undertaken for two weeks. Children and Teachers learnt to make Puppets, Folders, Friendship bands using colored beads strung together as wrist bands, Tie and Dye colouring of cloths etc.
End of Term and Brief Summer Break (16 -30 June ) With approaching monsoon, brick making at the kilns comes to have a break and as the migrants move back to their villages; Apna Skool centres at the brick kilns will remain closed from June 15 until about October. Apna Skools that will continue during this period are: 1- Dhamikheda Apna Skool 2- Panki Apna Skool 3- Panki Padhav Apna Skool 4- Tatiyaganj Apna Skool These schools will also have a short summer break for 15 days (June 16 – June 30). For class 1, the summer break will begin on June 5.
Teachers Training Schedule : 21 to 23 June – Mathematics 28 to 30 June - English Trainer – Mr Anish (Ph.d Student of I.I.T. Kanpur) During the summer break Teachers were given training 3 days each on teaching Mathematics and English by Mr Anish. It is expected that Teachers will make use of it to make their classes more efficient and interesting for children.
Start of Academic Year 2012 -13 The academic year 2012 -13 began in those ‘regular’ (the year long as opposed to those synchronized with the timings of migrant labour for about 8 months) centres of Apna Skool that had summer break of 15 days during June 2012.
Functional centres of "Apna Skool" in July 2012 S.N Name of Centre 1 2 3 4 5 6
Dhamikheda (2 Centre) Panki Power House Panki Padhav Tamsaha (Primary School) Tamsaha (Tussion) Juhi Apna Skool
Name of Teacher
Centre Timing
1-Jayprakash 2- Laxmi ji 1- Manju ji 1- Hardas ji 2- Renu Ji 1- Raksha Ji 1- Nirmla ji 1- Sunita Ji
7:30 8:30 10:30 7:30 2:00 2:00
to to to to to to
12:00 12:30 3 :00 11:00 5 :30 5 :30
Total Number of Students
Total No. of Students 47 40 36 22 14 35
194
43 Students studying in other schools.(Higher Education) Supported by: Apna Skool Apna Skool facilitates higher study in secondary and high school for many children who grew up in the Apna Skool centres. Apna Skool facilitates their admission in various Schools and help them with their admission fee, expenses for books and other stationery, school uniforms and other sundry needs. Below are listed particulars of the 43 children aided by Apna Skool.
In summary 43 children supported by Apna Skool in 2012 -13 are as follows:
Name of Student 1-Rinki
Class
Total No. of Students
Name of Centre
B.Com(I)
1
Sarsaiya Ghat (Mahila Park)
1- Sharda (B.A. Complete)
Computer Course
1-Sahil 2-Geeta 3-Rajani 1-Rahul 2-Tarannum 1-Shubham 1-Sarvesh 2-Arti
12th 10th 9th 8th
3 2 1 2
1-Mansi 2-Nahid 4-Prakash
7th
4
6th
8 1
1-Dharti
10th 9th 7th 5th
1-Anju
4th
1
1-Monu 1-Guddu
9th 7th 6th 7th 6th 5th
1 2 3 1 1 1
1-Umashankar
7th
1
1-Ajay
7th
2
th
1-Manvi 4-Suraj 7-Pavan
3-Shivam
2-Jyoti 3-Kajal 5-Komal 6-Maya 8-Nilesh
1-Sanjana 1-Rampyari 1-Mohini 2-Pavan
2-Akash
1-Ajay 2- Vijay 1-Manish 1-Niranjan 1-Rahul
2-Kanhiya
3-Amit
Sarsaiya Ghat (Mahila Park)
1
Dhamikheda Apna Skool
1 2
Panki Apna Skool
1
Kalra -1 Apna Skool(B.K) Avon Apna Skool (B.K) Vishnu Apna Skool (B.K) Ankit Apna Skool (B.K) Tamsaha Apna Skool
1-Kishan 1-Sanni
6 5th
1 1
Tamsaha Apna Skool
1-Vishal
8th
1
Jarauli
In the year 2012-13
Summary Computer Course B.Com 12 10 9 8
1 1 3 3 3 3
7 6 5 4
12 13 3 1
Total
43
Schooling in the native villages for Apna Skool Children Recognising the need for continuity in Schooling and in order that the children inculcate the habit of going to a school, Apna Skool team endeavors that the children are enrolled in the village schools, while the migrants go back to their home during the lean monsoon period. For the past couple of years our coordinators Mr B N Sharma and Mr Laxmikant Shukla visit the villages in Hamirpur District UP and Gaya and nearby districts in Bihar and facilitate the admission of the children in local Government Schools and provide them necessary stationery and supplies. B N Sharma undertook a visit to villages in Hamirpur district during 23 and 24 July and ensured schooling for 17 children. Moudha, Hamirpur – 10
Sumerpur, Hamirpur – 2
Igohta, Hamirpur – 3 Vidokar, Hamirpur - 2
Laxmi Kant Shukla visited during 26th July to August 1 and secured schooling for 42 children in the following villages: Dhanaul, Diraspur, Gaya - 8 Jamugawa, Gaya, Bihar – 5
Tilari, Bihar - 11
Simariya, Bihar –12
Pali, Bihar–6
Functional centres of "Apna Skool" in Aug. 2012-13 S.N 1
Name of Centre
Name of Teacher
Centre Timing
Dhamikheda (2 Centre)
1-Jayprakash 2-Manju ji
8:30
to
2:30
Total No. of Students 45
2 3 4 5 6 7
Panki Power House Panki Padhav Tamsaha (Primary School) Tamsaha (Tussion) Taiyaganj- 1 Juhi Apna Skool
1- Laxmi ji 1- Hardas ji 2- Renu Ji 1- Raksha Ji 1- Nirmla ji 1- Parnita 1- Sunita Ji
8:00 12:00 7:30 2:00 12:00 3:00
to to to to to to
1:30 5 :30 11:00 5 :30 3:00 7 :00
Total Number of Students
40 42 23 12 16 32
210
Thierry of Mala Foundation with Apna Skool (Get Together)- 5 August Brother Thierry Marteau, prominent well-wisher of Apna Ghar/Apna Skool parivar from Belgium made a brief visit to meet with the Apna Ghar residents and Apna Skool children and review with Asha Kanpur the progress of the construction project at Tatiya ganj. The venue of the meeting was appropriately at the Tatyaganj premises , so that he can have the feel of the activities there, including seeing the Apna Skool temporary structure, which got completed in October 2011 and is now serving as a lead centre handling children in third, fourth and fifth class levels of children from all the brick kilns in the neighbourhood, leaving the centres at the various brick kiln sites attend to younger children in the first two class levels. Children together with their teachers formally welcomed Thierry with floral garlands and Tilak of chandan on the visitor’s forehead. Children recited poems and skits to show case their talent.
Several children articulated, while introducing themselves (name , age, village they are from and class they now attend in the Apna Skool system and the duration they have been associated with Apna Skool) their own experience in the exposure to schooling and the personal aim and goal in life. Some of the older children, particularly the hostel residents gave the introduction in English.
This was followed by Vriksharopan, (tree planting) the objective of which was two fold. Children should realize that green cover is of essential requirement to preserve our environment. The Tatiyaganj campus, which was once plain level field, now that it is premises for school and residence should have greenery in the forms trees and plants around as an integral part. And it is now for all to share a simple mid day meal, consisting of Poories, Sabji and kheer.
Children presented to Thierry paper floweres crafted by them and annual wall calendar for the year for him to take with as memento..
INDEPENDENCE DAY 15 August 2012 Nations 66 th Independence day was observed in a manner that allowed Teachers and the children had an opportunity to have interaction with the parents and members of the society contiguous to each Apna Skool Centre. It started with Prabhat Pheri, a procession through the locality with children carrying slogans, with important messages to the society, such as SMOKING is HAZARDOUS, STOP SMOKING, UNITE TO BANISH CORRUPTION, DON’T WASTE WATER, NO LIOTTERING, KEEP YOUR ENVIRONMENT CLEAN etc.
AT each Apna Skool centre presently operational, a ceremony of FLAG HOISTING marked the day. In each centre one among the parents was given the honour of flag hoisting and leading the Salute to the flag.
A brief cultural programme started with the Saraswati Vandana and followed with Recitation of Poems and Rhymes, Story telling, Skits, Dances and Songs. Children were reminded the meaning of the Independence Day and recalled the many great leaders in building the modern India. Children took a pledge to be always truthful, hardworking and promote brotherhood among all work for a United Strong Prosperous and just nation. Children and all assembled shared fruits and Sweets, provided by generous doners of Apna Skool Parivar. .
Festivals Celebration Month of August saw three festivals Raksha Bandhan (AUGUST 2), that celebrates bondage between brothers, and sisters, Janmashtami (August 10), that marked the birth of Lord Krishna , an avatar of Vishnu to take side of the virtuous in eternal fight against evil and Id ul Fitr (August 20), a muslim festival that emphasises mutual brotherhood and concern for all.
Visitors in August Among the visitors to Apna Skool during August were friends and Associates of Dr Shivam from Rajasthan Vishalji and Ram Rai ji, professionals, who are engaged in education related volunteering activity. They were impressed with the skills exhibited by the children and had useful discussions with the Teachers and Co-ordinators of Apna Skool.
Mid day Meal Program
During the period May – August, hot mid day meals were provided using the grant from Mala foundations in most centres. The meal was ensured to be balanced with sufficient proteins and green vegetables and seasonal fruits. Personnel needed for this activity, such as preparing the meal were drawn up from the among the parents of the children and monitored by our teachers and co-ordinators. If in any centre we are not able to provide hot meal, suitable nutritional supplements in the form of fruits, peanuts, biscuits and ready made eatables were provided in lieu of hot meals. An integral part of this activity is to keep records of height and weight data and it is gratifying that this program has a positive influence in the healthy growth of children
As the monsoon is full swing at present minimal number of Apna Skool centres are functioning , awaiting the return of the workers to brick kiln later in October . Until then, Apna Skool activities will be confined to Dhamikheda, Panki, Panki Padhav and Tatiyaganj. While the first three cater to the needs of marginal workers and artisans of the city, the one at Tatyaganj forms the semipermanant structure forms part of Apna Ghar – Apna Skool complex, with active participation of Mala Foundation, Belgium. .
HIGHLIGHTS Recently promulgated Right to Education (RTE) act that makes basic education for all a possible dream realized soon. Apna Skool parivar makes efforts to bring this to the notice of everyone and intervene with the Government School system to make it operative. We look forward to the possibility that most of our children will be enrolled in the Government schools near by and persuade the authorities to start Neighbourhood schools, where no Govt school exist. All private schools are expected to admit 25% of their capacity to children of economically weaker sections, starting this year in Iclass 1 and progressively more classes in later years. We wish to make use of this option to extend our efforts. Indeed in most places private schools have not yet accepted this responsibility and our efforts to persuade them will continue. In these circumstances, Apna Skool will continue supplementary sessions of learning for these children, so that they are smoothly integrated into mainstream education. We are pleased that 40 erstwhile students of Apna Skool system have advanced to levels of High School or college, thanks to our continuing scholarship program. Five have become skilled personnel in various vocations and become full fledged wage earners in the society. Apna Skools have on their roll about 600 children, receiving their primary education, notwithstanding the migration handicap. We notice that several children who have been attending Apna Skool attempt to continue their schooling in their village schools ,aided by our co-ordinators (Shri B N Sharma and Shri L K Shukla) who go to their villages and help their enrollment in the local schools. Further there are many places children by themselves got admitted to schools, having learnt the importance of continuity in Schooling.
APNA SKOOL REPORT (May –August 2012)
Functional centres of "Apna Skool" in May. 2012 Total No. of Students
S.N Name of Centre
Name of Teacher
Centre Timing
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Dhamikheda (2 Centre) Panki Power House Panki Padhav Tatiyaganj-1 Apna Skool Tatiyaganj-2 Apna Skool Kalra-1 Apna Skool Saran Lodhar Apna Skool Vishnu Apna Skool (2 Centre) Mera Avon Apna Skool
1-Manju ji 2- Sunita Ji 1- Laxmi ji 1- Hardas ji 2- Renu Ji 1- Parnita Ji 1- Nirmla ji 1- Pradeep Ji 1- Prachi 1- Yashoda Ji 1- Jayprakash 2- Ranjana 1- Raksha Ji 1- Mohit Dixit
8:30 7:30 3:00 10:00 10:00 8:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 8:00 9:00
to to to to to to to to to to to
12:30 12:30 7:00 3:30 3:30 1:30 12:30 11:00 2:00 1:30 2:30
56 30 28 27 26 28 24 7 34 24 16
Murari Apna Skool (2 Centre)
1-Najma Ji
8:00
to
1:30
29
Badhawan Apna Skool Kisan Nagar
1- Pushpa Ji 1- Hardas ji
9:00 10:00
to to
1:00 1:00
20 19
15
Maharajpur Apna Skool
1- Shiv Om
9:00
to
2:30
26
16
Rautepur (Bhola B.K)
1- Nidhi Pal
2:00
to
4:00
9
17
Ankit Apna Skool
1- Himanshu Ji
9:30
to
2:30
20
Total Number of Students
423
Annual Examination (10 th to 15th May 2012) It was time for the year end examinations and in all Apna Skool centres tests were administered to class 1, 2 and 4. [class 3 and 5 children are to take part in the NIOS (National Institute of Open Schools) certified exam ]. Children responded enthusiastically in taking the tests and showcasing their achievement.
Educational Excursion (23 May 2012)
This year’s educational excursion took all Apna Skool children to Bithoor, a historically important heritage sight on the banks of River Ganga in the neighbourhood. Sites visited were: Boat ride on River Ganga Baji Rao Peshwa palace Sudanshu Ashram, where a 100 ft long cave is located Sainyi Darbar Freedom fighter Rani Lakshmi Bai lived in the palace built for her by Peshwa Baji Rao at Bithoor on the banks of River Ganga. The majestic palace that nurtured young Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi is a historic monument and the children were told of her valiant battle against British that initiated the Freedom movement in the country. Children read about the famous cave temples at Ajanta and Ellora in their text books. For them to see a cave temple of Sudanshu Ashram, where a 100 ft deep cave is situated turned out to be an educative experience, as Teachers explained the significance of cave dwelling for early man and the same as a recluse for contemplating Yogis later. At the end of the excursion children were given fruits and sweets at the Sanyi Ashram, a holy centre of pilgrimage.
Distribution of Report Card (25/05/12 to 30/05/12) In all centres the year end Report cards were distributed during this week and children and their parents got to know the level of achievement at the end academic ‘year’. This was a moment of great joy as they clutch the Report Cards with them as evidence of their schooling. Teachers got an opportunity to interact with the parents and used it to drive home the importance of Schooling to grateful parents assembled for the occasion.
Cultural Evening This was also an occasion to showcase cultural talents of the children and children enacted short dramas, recited poems, they had learnt as well as ones they themselves composed, skits with social messages, prepared with aid from the Teachers and volunteers, folk and group dances, story telling as well as Jokes and Riddles.
Prizes for best achievers In order to encourage talent and inspire good performers, the top scorers in each centre were awarded Prizes by way of children story books.
Feedback
The occasion served to get feedback from the parents. Many parents emphasized that their children have been benefited by their ability to read and write and along with that have picked up laudable good habits and behavior.
Honouring the Teachers A substantial credit for the project should go to the Teachers, who interact with the children and impart the skills and influence them in many ways positively. On this occasions teachers were formally thanked
and Vijaya Didi performed for them a traditional Tilak ceremony, adorning their fore heads with kumkum /chandan tilak and offering flowers.
Dr Ravikumar and Vijaya Didi discuss with bhatta residents on Family Planning. Accompanied by Vija Didi Dr Ravikumar, a family planning expert held a motivational meeting with the parents of Apna Skool children in several centres and other residents at the Bhatta, telling them on the advantage of Family planning on their health and the wisdom in a well nourished limited family. They were told that it will be good to make use of the Government schemes to get themselves undergo safe sterilization proceedures available in their own village (Hamirpur dist.UP; districts in Bihar, Assam etc.) primary and secondary health centres .
Visitors Dr Shivam Tripathi, Civil Engg Dept IITK and Mr Saswat Sahoo and Mr Bharatendu (Delhi)
This months visitors included Dr Shivam Tripathi, Civil Engg Dept IITK (who will join Apna Skool team as in charge of the project while Dr Pranab Mohapatra will be away in the US for a couple of years and his friends from Delhi Mr Saswat Sahoo and Mr Bharatendu, who are involved in development of solar lamps. They interacted with the children, who with great enthusiasm demonstrated their Science projects and Science driven simple toys. Impressed with their curiosity the visitors explained them importance of energy for our lives and how sun can be useful source for our energy needs. They told them simple products such as Solar cookers, Solar lamps, that do not need either electricity or other fuels, such as coal, kerosene or petrol. That solar lamps can provide light where there is no electricity, such as their hutments in the Bhattas.
Functional centres of "Apna Skool" in june 2012 Total No. of Students
S.N Name of Centre
Name of Teacher
Centre Timing
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Dhamikheda (2 Centre) Panki Power House Panki Padhav Tatiyaganj-1 Apna Skool Tatiyaganj-2 Apna Skool Kalra-1 Apna Skool Saran Lodhar Apna Skool Vishnu Apna Skool (2 Centre) Mera Avon Apna Skool
1-Manju ji 2- Sunita Ji 1- Laxmi ji 1- Hardas ji 2- Renu Ji 1- Parnita Ji 1- Nirmla ji 1- Pradeep Ji 1- Prachi 1- Yashoda Ji 1- Jayprakash 2- Ranjana 1- Raksha Ji 1- Mohit Dixit
8:30 7:30 7:30 10:00 10:00 8:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 8:00 9:00
to to to to to to to to to to to
12:00 12:30 12:30 3:30 3:30 1:30 12:30 11:00 2:00 1:30 2:30
56 35 35 13 27 28 18 7 41 22 21
Murari Apna Skool (2 Centre)
1-Najma Ji
8:00
to
1:30
23
Badhawan Apna Skool Kisan Nagar
1- Pushpa Ji 1- Hardas ji
9:00 10:00
to to
1:00 1:00
20 19
15
Maharajpur Apna Skool
1- Shiv Om
9:00
to
2:30
26
16
Rautepur (Bhola B.K)
1- Nidhi Pal
2:00
to
4:00
9
17
Ankit Apna Skool
1- Himanshu Ji
9:30
to
2:30
20
420 Total Number of Students Tamsaha Apna Skool had summer holidays during this month.
Scholarship supported Apna Skool Alumni become Graduates Sanjay – B.Sc.
Satyanarayan – B.Com
Sharda – B.A
It is a proud moment for Apna Skool that this year there are three erstwhile Apna Skool children, who have earned their graduation. Notwithstanding the handicap of being first generation learners, children of migrant brick kiln workers from Chattisgarh, they have slowly and surely made a progress in their education that will make them responsible citizens and look forward to better career prospects.
World Environment Day (June 5 2012)
Apna Skool Teachers told children about the need to protect the environment for our own secure future and how important it is to have forests. The tendency to cut trees to make way for various construction activities, particularly in urban centres have reduced the tree cover significantly. Each centre participated in tree planting (Vriksharopan) and resolved to nurture trees, so planted. Children
were asked to write TEN sentences of relevance to Environment as Group Exercise in those centres where there are older children.
Vocational Training (1 June – 15 June) At Dhamikhera, Panki panki Padhao, and Tatiyaganj centres vocational training activities were undertaken for two weeks. Children and Teachers learnt to make Puppets, Folders, Friendship bands using colored beads strung together as wrist bands, Tie and Dye colouring of cloths etc.
End of Term and Brief Summer Break (16 -30 June ) With approaching monsoon, brick making at the kilns comes to have a break and as the migrants move back to their villages; Apna Skool centres at the brick kilns will remain closed from June 15 until about October. Apna Skools that will continue during this period are: 1- Dhamikheda Apna Skool 2- Panki Apna Skool 3- Panki Padhav Apna Skool 4- Tatiyaganj Apna Skool These schools will also have a short summer break for 15 days (June 16 – June 30). For class 1, the summer break will begin on June 5.
Teachers Training Schedule : 21 to 23 June – Mathematics 28 to 30 June - English Trainer – Mr Anish (Ph.d Student of I.I.T. Kanpur) During the summer break Teachers were given training 3 days each on teaching Mathematics and English by Mr Anish. It is expected that Teachers will make use of it to make their classes more efficient and interesting for children.
Start of Academic Year 2012 -13 The academic year 2012 -13 began in those ‘regular’ (the year long as opposed to those synchronized with the timings of migrant labour for about 8 months) centres of Apna Skool that had summer break of 15 days during June 2012.
Functional centres of "Apna Skool" in July 2012 S.N Name of Centre 1 2 3 4 5 6
Dhamikheda (2 Centre) Panki Power House Panki Padhav Tamsaha (Primary School) Tamsaha (Tussion) Juhi Apna Skool
Name of Teacher
Centre Timing
1-Jayprakash 2- Laxmi ji 1- Manju ji 1- Hardas ji 2- Renu Ji 1- Raksha Ji 1- Nirmla ji 1- Sunita Ji
7:30 8:30 10:30 7:30 2:00 2:00
to to to to to to
12:00 12:30 3 :00 11:00 5 :30 5 :30
Total Number of Students
Total No. of Students 47 40 36 22 14 35
194
43 Students studying in other schools.(Higher Education) Supported by: Apna Skool Apna Skool facilitates higher study in secondary and high school for many children who grew up in the Apna Skool centres. Apna Skool facilitates their admission in various Schools and help them with their admission fee, expenses for books and other stationery, school uniforms and other sundry needs. Below are listed particulars of the 43 children aided by Apna Skool.
In summary 43 children supported by Apna Skool in 2012 -13 are as follows:
Name of Student 1-Rinki
Class
Total No. of Students
Name of Centre
B.Com(I)
1
Sarsaiya Ghat (Mahila Park)
1- Sharda (B.A. Complete)
Computer Course
1-Sahil 2-Geeta 3-Rajani 1-Rahul 2-Tarannum 1-Shubham 1-Sarvesh 2-Arti
12th 10th 9th 8th
3 2 1 2
1-Mansi 2-Nahid 4-Prakash
7th
4
6th
8 1
1-Dharti
10th 9th 7th 5th
1-Anju
4th
1
1-Monu 1-Guddu
9th 7th 6th 7th 6th 5th
1 2 3 1 1 1
1-Umashankar
7th
1
1-Ajay
7th
2
th
1-Manvi 4-Suraj 7-Pavan
3-Shivam
2-Jyoti 3-Kajal 5-Komal 6-Maya 8-Nilesh
1-Sanjana 1-Rampyari 1-Mohini 2-Pavan
2-Akash
1-Ajay 2- Vijay 1-Manish 1-Niranjan 1-Rahul
2-Kanhiya
3-Amit
Sarsaiya Ghat (Mahila Park)
1
Dhamikheda Apna Skool
1 2
Panki Apna Skool
1
Kalra -1 Apna Skool(B.K) Avon Apna Skool (B.K) Vishnu Apna Skool (B.K) Ankit Apna Skool (B.K) Tamsaha Apna Skool
1-Kishan 1-Sanni
6 5th
1 1
Tamsaha Apna Skool
1-Vishal
8th
1
Jarauli
In the year 2012-13
Summary Computer Course B.Com 12 10 9 8
1 1 3 3 3 3
7 6 5 4
12 13 3 1
Total
43
Schooling in the native villages for Apna Skool Children Recognising the need for continuity in Schooling and in order that the children inculcate the habit of going to a school, Apna Skool team endeavors that the children are enrolled in the village schools, while the migrants go back to their home during the lean monsoon period. For the past couple of years our coordinators Mr B N Sharma and Mr Laxmikant Shukla visit the villages in Hamirpur District UP and Gaya and nearby districts in Bihar and facilitate the admission of the children in local Government Schools and provide them necessary stationery and supplies. B N Sharma undertook a visit to villages in Hamirpur district during 23 and 24 July and ensured schooling for 17 children. Moudha, Hamirpur – 10
Sumerpur, Hamirpur – 2
Igohta, Hamirpur – 3 Vidokar, Hamirpur - 2
Laxmi Kant Shukla visited during 26th July to August 1 and secured schooling for 42 children in the following villages: Dhanaul, Diraspur, Gaya - 8 Jamugawa, Gaya, Bihar – 5
Tilari, Bihar - 11
Simariya, Bihar –12
Pali, Bihar–6
Functional centres of "Apna Skool" in Aug. 2012-13 S.N 1
Name of Centre
Name of Teacher
Centre Timing
Dhamikheda (2 Centre)
1-Jayprakash 2-Manju ji
8:30
to
2:30
Total No. of Students 45
2 3 4 5 6 7
Panki Power House Panki Padhav Tamsaha (Primary School) Tamsaha (Tussion) Taiyaganj- 1 Juhi Apna Skool
1- Laxmi ji 1- Hardas ji 2- Renu Ji 1- Raksha Ji 1- Nirmla ji 1- Parnita 1- Sunita Ji
8:00 12:00 7:30 2:00 12:00 3:00
to to to to to to
1:30 5 :30 11:00 5 :30 3:00 7 :00
Total Number of Students
40 42 23 12 16 32
210
Thierry of Mala Foundation with Apna Skool (Get Together)- 5 August Brother Thierry Marteau, prominent well-wisher of Apna Ghar/Apna Skool parivar from Belgium made a brief visit to meet with the Apna Ghar residents and Apna Skool children and review with Asha Kanpur the progress of the construction project at Tatiya ganj. The venue of the meeting was appropriately at the Tatyaganj premises , so that he can have the feel of the activities there, including seeing the Apna Skool temporary structure, which got completed in October 2011 and is now serving as a lead centre handling children in third, fourth and fifth class levels of children from all the brick kilns in the neighbourhood, leaving the centres at the various brick kiln sites attend to younger children in the first two class levels. Children together with their teachers formally welcomed Thierry with floral garlands and Tilak of chandan on the visitor’s forehead. Children recited poems and skits to show case their talent.
Several children articulated, while introducing themselves (name , age, village they are from and class they now attend in the Apna Skool system and the duration they have been associated with Apna Skool) their own experience in the exposure to schooling and the personal aim and goal in life. Some of the older children, particularly the hostel residents gave the introduction in English.
This was followed by Vriksharopan, (tree planting) the objective of which was two fold. Children should realize that green cover is of essential requirement to preserve our environment. The Tatiyaganj campus, which was once plain level field, now that it is premises for school and residence should have greenery in the forms trees and plants around as an integral part. And it is now for all to share a simple mid day meal, consisting of Poories, Sabji and kheer.
Children presented to Thierry paper floweres crafted by them and annual wall calendar for the year for him to take with as memento..
INDEPENDENCE DAY 15 August 2012 Nations 66 th Independence day was observed in a manner that allowed Teachers and the children had an opportunity to have interaction with the parents and members of the society contiguous to each Apna Skool Centre. It started with Prabhat Pheri, a procession through the locality with children carrying slogans, with important messages to the society, such as SMOKING is HAZARDOUS, STOP SMOKING, UNITE TO BANISH CORRUPTION, DON’T WASTE WATER, NO LIOTTERING, KEEP YOUR ENVIRONMENT CLEAN etc.
AT each Apna Skool centre presently operational, a ceremony of FLAG HOISTING marked the day. In each centre one among the parents was given the honour of flag hoisting and leading the Salute to the flag.
A brief cultural programme started with the Saraswati Vandana and followed with Recitation of Poems and Rhymes, Story telling, Skits, Dances and Songs. Children were reminded the meaning of the Independence Day and recalled the many great leaders in building the modern India. Children took a pledge to be always truthful, hardworking and promote brotherhood among all work for a United Strong Prosperous and just nation. Children and all assembled shared fruits and Sweets, provided by generous doners of Apna Skool Parivar. .
Festivals Celebration Month of August saw three festivals Raksha Bandhan (AUGUST 2), that celebrates bondage between brothers, and sisters, Janmashtami (August 10), that marked the birth of Lord Krishna , an avatar of Vishnu to take side of the virtuous in eternal fight against evil and Id ul Fitr (August 20), a muslim festival that emphasises mutual brotherhood and concern for all.
Visitors in August Among the visitors to Apna Skool during August were friends and Associates of Dr Shivam from Rajasthan Vishalji and Ram Rai ji, professionals, who are engaged in education related volunteering activity. They were impressed with the skills exhibited by the children and had useful discussions with the Teachers and Co-ordinators of Apna Skool.
Mid day Meal Program
During the period May – August, hot mid day meals were provided using the grant from Mala foundations in most centres. The meal was ensured to be balanced with sufficient proteins and green vegetables and seasonal fruits. Personnel needed for this activity, such as preparing the meal were drawn up from the among the parents of the children and monitored by our teachers and co-ordinators. If in any centre we are not able to provide hot meal, suitable nutritional supplements in the form of fruits, peanuts, biscuits and ready made eatables were provided in lieu of hot meals. An integral part of this activity is to keep records of height and weight data and it is gratifying that this program has a positive influence in the healthy growth of children
As the monsoon is full swing at present minimal number of Apna Skool centres are functioning , awaiting the return of the workers to brick kiln later in October . Until then, Apna Skool activities will be confined to Dhamikheda, Panki, Panki Padhav and Tatiyaganj. While the first three cater to the needs of marginal workers and artisans of the city, the one at Tatyaganj forms the semipermanant structure forms part of Apna Ghar – Apna Skool complex, with active participation of Mala Foundation, Belgium. .
