Vikasini Girls School tries to ensure that the girls in the age group 4 - 10 years have access to as a wide range of opportunities as possible and are exposed to a holistic education which teaches not only the regular curriculum but respect and tolerance for diversity. On 5th November, the day after Ramzan this year, a Muslim child brought 'sheer khorma' the traditional sweet they make and it was shared among all the children - each getting a half teaspoon. Another Muslim girl invited all the students in her class for lunch for which most of them went. The feeling and demonstration of friendship is important among children from that socioeconomic background. There usually is solidarity among people from the same community in the area, but friendship is something they consider unimportant and a luxury.



In order to break the gender stereotype the girls are being taught cricket twice a week.



The school has brought together the mothers who have formed savings groups as a first step towards setting up some collective income generating initiative in the near future.



Bringing laughter and sparkle into 68 little girls' hearts is precious - because they in turn give the gift to their families.



Indira

Pictures:

• Photo of a classroom (JPG)