Schooling the underserved

Catering to the educational needs of underserved children, Navsrijan—a free, English medium, full-day school situated in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow—capitalises on existing infrastructure of another school

- ANIL SWARUP

The visit to Lucknow last week was with the objective of attending the Nexus of Good City Chapter event wherein some inspiring presentations were made. However, what I witnessed on the following day at Navsrijan was amazing. The eloquence and the passion with which some of the pass-outs from the school spoke was quite incredible.

In a country as vast and vibrant as India, countless children still grapple with the harsh reality of being denied quality education, in fact, any literacy at all! This injustice stirred something deep within Anjali Jaipuria's heart. She began to ask: What can be done for them? How could the untapped potential hidden within these young souls be uncovered? From these questions blossomed a vision-one rooted in the belief that every child deserves the chance to grow, thrive and realize their inner capacities.

In 2010, she decided to do her little bit. This vision gave birth to Navsrijan, a free, English medium, full-day school situated in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow, for the under-served, where forgotten children would find their voice and their futures would take flight, where each student would feel valued and unique. What began with just 50 students in 2010, has now empowered hundreds. Children who once were working as utensil cleaners at 'Dhabas' or as maids, now stand tall, pursuing studies far beyond the basics, filled with self-pride and a bold determination to fly.