Success Stories

From Curiosity to Cosmos: Snehal's Journey

In 2016, a spark ignited in rural Maharashtra with the Vidyoday Muktangan Parivar Foundation, aimed at nurturing scientific temper and curiosity among children like Snehal Neje. Starting with science skill schools in villages, the foundation grew into a hub of learning and exploration.

Choosing a path less traveled, Snehal aspired to be a scientist. Her persistence paid off with a spot at IISER Bhopal, a proud moment for all at the foundation. Her journey resonates deeply, rising from modest beginnings to become the first in her family to pursue higher education.

As Snehal prepares to embark on her research journey, her story underscores the power of nurturing curiosity in rural education. It proves that with determination and support, dreams know no bounds.

From Disengaged to Innovator: Ishan's Story

Ishan, a quiet and disengaged student from Kumar Vidya Mandir, Shiradwad, struggled with classroom participation and was considered a slow learner. The Chhote Kalam Science Project intervened with a hands-on learning approach, sparking Ishan's interest and leading him to actively participate in his studies.

Encouraged by his teacher, he presented his work at Vidyanosav and identified a village issue—frequent flooding—developing a "Flood Indicator" to address it. His project gained recognition at the block level, showcasing his transformation into a young innovator.

Ishan's journey proves that every child has potential; sometimes all they need is the right approach and encouragement to shine.

Finding His Voice: Mahesh's Transformation

Initially perceived as shy and unremarkable, Mahesh began to shine through the supportive and engaging environment provided by the Vidyankur Muktangan Parivar Foundation. His evolution from a hesitant participant to a confident storyteller illustrated the project's core mission of empowering every child to realize and express their unique potential.

Mahesh's story embodies the essence of our work, showcasing how belief and encouragement can unlock remarkable abilities in even the quietest of voices. His journey from silence to confidence inspires us to continue creating spaces where every child feels valued and heard.

The Gentle Giant: Buddhabhushan's Journey

Among the students, one child stood out: Buddhabhushan Khadsole. A tall, calm, and understanding boy in Class V, Buddhabhushan immediately captured attention with his gentle demeanor. When asked, "What is your name, boy?" Buddhabhushan responded with a touch of hesitance, but his repeated introduction, along with the amused laughter of his classmates, revealed his witty and endearing nature.

His unconscious smile as he spoke left a lasting impression, hinting at the layers of depth beneath his shy exterior. This initial encounter set the stage for a journey of discovering the true essence of Buddhabhushan's character and the challenges he faced. Through consistent support and encouragement, he began to embrace his unique personality and strengths.

Inspiring Minds: Kagwade Madam's Journey

Kagwade Madam transformed her classroom in Shiradwad through hands-on science, inspiring her students to embrace learning and dream big. After participating in the Shiksha Samvad program, she stopped relying solely on textbooks and embraced experiential learning methods.

Now, she teaches through simple, hands-on experiments and asks her students to explore scientific solutions to real-life problems in their village. Her transformation from a traditional teacher to an innovative facilitator has inspired countless students to see science not just as a subject, but as a tool to solve everyday challenges.

Her dedication exemplifies how teacher empowerment can create ripple effects that transform entire communities. Through her example, other teachers are motivated to adopt student-centered, inquiry-based teaching methods.

A New Direction: Asha Sathe's Transformation

My name is Asha Sathe. In the beginning, my dream was to join the police force, but due to circumstances, it could not be fulfilled. I started my family life, but there was always a restlessness in my heart — "I should do something for myself."

I completed many courses like tailoring, beauty parlour training, and food preservation. One day, a friend told me that interviews were being held at the Sugar School. I had my doubts, but I went anyway. Vinayak Dada asked me, "Will you be able to teach children?" I replied, "I'll try."

Then he said one sentence that changed my life. I started teaching the children of sugarcane-cutting laborers. At first, I felt hesitant, but gradually I began to connect with the children. Their laughter, innocent eyes, and their life situations — everything moved me deeply. While educating them, I also played a "mother-like" role in their lives.

Today, when a child affectionately calls out "Madam!", I feel that I am on the right path. All this became possible because of Vinayak Dada. He gave me an opportunity and helped me regain faith in myself.

Today, I can proudly say — I am a courageous teacher, and through my teaching, many lives are receiving a new direction.

A Turning Point: Pallavi Phulare's Determined Future

After joining the Sevankur Learning Centre, I noticed that many children struggled with basic hygiene, health awareness, and language skills. Yet, in this challenging environment, one student stood out — Pallavi.

She was quick to understand lessons, always sat in the front row, and listened with complete attention. Her regular attendance and love for learning were impossible to miss. Even when her parents, due to difficult circumstances, asked her to stay back to help at work, Pallavi never gave up on her studies.

Background

Pallavi Phulare, a fifth-grade student, comes from the Bhil community. Her family migrates from Nandurbar district for sugarcane cutting work. Growing up in poverty, Pallavi spent her childhood in sugarcane fields alongside her parents. Despite this, she found joy in schoolbooks and dreamed of a better future.

The Journey of Change

Pallavi not only focused on her own learning but also supported other students. She happily helped classmates with memorization, explained lessons, and encouraged them to keep going. While her achievements were appreciated at school, they often went unnoticed at home. Still, her determination, dreams, and love for learning never faded.

A Transformative Moment

During a speech competition, Pallavi chose to speak about the lives of sugarcane workers. Her words deeply moved the teachers, and she won first prize. Although her achievement was not celebrated at home, Pallavi's face reflected immense confidence.

Story Compilation: Varsha Patil, Centre Coordinator, Sevankur Project (2025)