UPKRAM

We believe that meaningful learning begins when we meet children where they are. 🌼

As the harvest season begins in April, there is a direct effect on students' learning in government primary schools in Sonbhadra. During this time, many children accompany their families to the fields or stay at home caring for their younger siblings or spend their days collecting mahua.

Classrooms grow quieter, with attendance dropping to nearly 25%. For us, it is a reminder: education cannot be designed in isolation from children’s lived realities.

Our approach in April is rooted in this understanding. We consciously adapt, keeping academics light and creating spaces for joyful learning. Through play-based activities, storytelling, and shared responsibilities like organising libraries, we ensure that children who do come to school continue to feel engaged, seen, and connected.

At the same time, our team visits communities, engages with families and gently encourages children to return to school.

Designing education in tribal rural regions like Sonbhadra demands listening, observing, and evolving with the rhythms of the community.

[Children, April, School, Rural India, Education, Library]

On International Women’s Day, we invited women from the community we work with, not just to mark the day, but to create space for dialogue and shared experiences. ✨

The gathering began with mothers of children from our partner schools, and gradually the circle grew as more women joined in. 🌻

Women engaged with some reflective activities. In 'Sapno Ke Deewar', women wrote and drew their dreams. In 'Meri Kahani Meri Takat', they shared memorable experiences from their lives. These simple yet thoughtful activities opened up conversations and encouraged women to reflect on their aspirations and the many roles they hold in their lives.🕊

For us, dialogue is not limited to a single day, nor is it confined only to children. Alongside students, we actively engage with parents because together we build a more supportive learning environment for children and nurture thoughtful conversations in rural communities.