The school redevelopment program was held in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity, an international NGO engaged in several social upliftment projects for underprivileged sections of society.
More than 170 students from Vivekanand English High School in Kurla, a Vivekanand Education Society (VES) affiliate, helped to rebuild the dilapidated building of Academy of Developmental Science, a school for tribal children in Kashele village near Karjat, as a part of a community integration initiative. The class 9 and 10 students, aged 14 to 15, voluntarily contributed their efforts to rebuild the school from scratch.
Quick learners, the students observed construction workers and soon picked up building skills themselves following which they contributed to every aspect of the school's rebuilding process — right from laying the bricks to painting the school building.
They had the help of 10 staff members from their school who accompanied the students to the village.
The school redevelopment program was held in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity, an international NGO engaged in several social upliftment projects for underprivileged sections of society.
Dr Asha Binukumar, principal, Vivekanand English High School, said, "We need to sensitise children towards the plight of their fellow citizens, especially the downtrodden sections of society. Schools should encourage students to participate in community development projects like this which will make them appreciate the value and dignity of labour. Through willing participation in such programmes, children not only imbibe empathy but also grow as model citizens".
Vaishnavi Bidoo, one of the participating students, said, "We first observed the construction workers then we started helping them.We painted the walls as well as built the school's compound wall."
Students and staff from the school were awarded with international certificates, valid in 80 countries, for their contribution to community service.
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