Saying
goodbyes is never easy but if we are prepared for it things become just a bit
easy. The PPCE program in Hinjewadi will complete three years in April and it
will be time for DSS to exit the field after the school exams are over. For the
last three years DSS has been like a guardian to them; giving the school going
children and parents support whenever required. To help the parents and
children deal with the upcoming break, they are being well prepared through
various activities.
Parents
were first told that by April they will have to take full responsibility for
their children’s education as the PPCE team will not be visiting them. They
were naturally upset but understood that there are others like them who need
our help and guidance. After
Diwali vacation, in October, DSS had reduced the number of visits asking
parents to visit the schools and build a rapport with the school teachers.
As
a part of the exit strategy DSS had organized a get-together of parents and
children of Hinjewadi area in Man village. 105 children and 57 parents attended
the meeting. Mr. Sachin, our field associate, who is a dedicated and tireless
worker helped organize it very well. He is very popular with the parents as he
helps the children with all their problems. The parents are very attached to
him and they had tears in their eyes as they thanked him for his support.
We
also invited the school staff and other influential village members (Sarpanch,
ZP members, volunteers etc) who have actively supported us. We once again told the
parents about the importance of education and the Right to Education Act that
will help their children to continue with their education, no matter where they
go in the future.
One of the school teachers addressed the crowd
and told them how lucky they were that DSS had come to help them with their
children’s education. Even the school
was doing better as they had more students on their roll thanks to Mr. Sachin
who encouraged children to get enrolled in the school. Not only that, he also
ensured that all the children attended school regularly.
Everyone
enjoyed the games organized for that day and participated with a lot of
enthusiasm. It was also an emotional time for both the
parents and the DSS team as they said goodbye. They requested us for someone
who will support them and is available to them as and when required.
We
wish the parents and their children the best and leave with a strong hope to
see the children having a better tomorrow with today’s education.
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| Parents getting felicitated |
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| Volunteers addressing children |
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