A mentoring initiative for children in Kolkata’s urban slums
Overview
Lakhs of children growing up in slums across India do not have access to education, skill training, right role models and a chance to grow out of poverty. Most of them experience hopelessness and are lured into anti-social and disruptive behavior.
Started in 2009 by volunteers of The Art of Living, Light a Lamp is a mentoring program for underprivileged children and youth in Kolkata’s urban slums. The program empowers underprivileged children through mentorship, education, yoga, and meditation.
Words from the co-founder
While teaching my domestic help’s son, I realized there is a huge gap between what kids from low-income schools know and what is there in books. That was a shock to me ! With no guidance from parents or teachers, many lose interest in studies and get involved in substance abuse, gambling, cybercrime and so on. The idea of Light a Lamp was born to help these kids”
- Sujala Roy, co-founder, Light A Lamp
Approach
We leverage a pool of successful professionals from diverse backgrounds to provide mentorship to children and youth from low-income backgrounds. These mentors help students with their expertise, skills, and knowledge; guiding them in aspects such as academic, professional and emotional.
The curriculum of the program includes:
Soft skills and values
• Communicative English classes • The Art of Living courses for kids and teens • Values and moral classes (Sri Sri Sanskar Kendra)
• Mentoring and counselling to help them overcome personal challenges and make right decisions • Assisting in job placement for the youth
The curriculum revolves around ‘student-centered’ learning with aspects such as:
1. Personalized learning: giving individual attention to every student 2. Competency-based learning: teaching students based on their competency 3. Spontaneous learning: making learning fun with games and teaching aids 4. Students take ownership of what they want to learn
More than an educational initiative
We are there for the kids in every way possible. The initiative is a way for us to care, bond and bring out the best in them. The shared bond between the mentors and the kids has kept this going.”
- Chandrani Biswas, co-founder, Light a Lamp
Impact
Light a Lamp has positively impacted more than 1,000 students across five centers in Kolkata
• Adarsh Hindi Vidyalaya, Alipore, Kolkata • Janakalyan Shiksha Samity School , Dhapa, Kolkata • Ultadanga, Kolkata • Pranab Kanya Ashram, Sector 1, Salt Lake, Kolkata • Dakshini Prayash, Madurdaha, Kolkata
Testimonials
When I first learned that Light a Lamp is going to teach English here I was keen to join. I am from a poor family and I wanted to learn English as it is an international language. I used to feel very nervous while speaking in front of the public. My mentors have raised my self-confidence. I have even helped script a play here and performed in it. Before studying, we meditate for some time which increases my ability to focus. Here, teachers teach us in a way that lets us understand.”
- Aarti Singh, Student, Light a Lamp
I was in the second year of college when I joined Light a Lamp computer classes. I liked the classes very much and learned a lot of things. I have also worked as a trainer in these classes, which has given me a lot of confidence. Today, I am working with an online company and able to support my family as a sole breadwinner.”
- Arbind Prasad, Graduate, Light a Lamp
We can do much more with your help. If you wish to donate or open a Light a Lamp center in your area or contribute in any other way please write to lightalamp@projects.artofliving.org
A multi-faceted approach to social initiatives has saved many lives, lit many smiles, and helped communities experience progress. Every piece of service work is created with dedicated analysis, thoughtful care - keeping humaneness in the forefront.
A multi-faceted approach to social initiatives has saved many lives, lit many smiles, and helped communities experience progress. Every piece of service work is created with dedicated analysis, thoughtful care - keeping humaneness in the forefront.
