ATLAS tries to bridge the education gap in India through the Pehchaan Program

Education is a fundamental right, and it is the foundation of progress and development. Unfortunately, not everyone has equal access to quality education. This is the reality in India, where the education gap between public and private schools is wide and often insurmountable. However, the ATLAS SkillTech University and the KurNiv Foundation have taken a step forward to address this issue through the Pehchaan Program.

Bridging the education gap

The Pehchaan Program is an initiative aimed at bridging the gap between public and private schools in India. Its objective is to create camaraderie and friendship among different factions of society who would have otherwise not come together, regardless of income, living conditions or educational background. The program also aims to create a greater interest in students completing 10th standard from municipal schools to complete junior college successfully and then move on to further studies or a lucrative vocational practice.

Foundation Week

One of the most remarkable aspects of the program is its foundation week, which brings together students from the streets and slums who have finished SSC in 2023 from BMC schools with young students already in college. During this week, the young college students mentor their counterparts, sensitizing them to the problem and providing them with guidance and support.

Participation of 155+ students from BMC schools

This year’s event was a huge success, with a total of 157 students from BMC schools such as Saalam Bombay, Colaba Municipal School, and Barve Municipal School in Ghatkopar, as well as Red Boys Foundation, all participating. The event was made possible by the hard work and dedication of the organizing committee, which included members from ATLAS SkillTech University, Lala Lajpatrai College, Sophia College, KC College, and Ruia College. With their help, participants were one step closer to realising their dreams of a brighter future.

Day 1: College Prep Week

On Day 1 of College Prep Week, the foundation for communication, lateral connect, and basic English skills was set. The main aim was to make the participants feel comfortable and safe so they could find the courage to open up and get ready for the activities to come. The day began with sharing the Pehchaan values and ideologies through an affirmation. Team activities like Banner Balla and Caterpillar were conducted, which helped the participants learn to work and communicate in teams. The Mic Session and Table Topics encouraged them to speak in public without any fear of judgement. By building on these essential skills, the participants were ready to take the next step towards a brighter future.

Exposure to English, GK and Public Speaking

After the foundation week, the program continues, with the students being taught their entire FYJC English curriculum during the summer holidays. They are also taught General Knowledge and given exposure to talks by well-established members of the community. The results have been impressive, with students from the program going on to study law, becoming CAs, and pursuing Master’s Degrees in Business, Cybersecurity, and Science.

Individuals and organisations together make a positive impact

The Pehchaan Program is an excellent example of how individuals and organisations can come together to make a positive impact on society. By bridging the education gap between public and private schools, the program creates greater understanding and awareness among the public at large about the gap in education between municipal school education and private school education in India.

This program is an opportunity for individuals to make a difference at their individual level. As awareness is created about what they can do to step into bridging this gap between the public and private sectors of education, individuals can play their part in ensuring that everyone has access to quality education.

The Pehchaan Program is a laudable initiative that deserves recognition and support. It is a step forward in bridging the education gap in India, creating a greater understanding of the problem and providing solutions to address it. With the commitment and dedication of all involved, the program has the potential to make a significant impact in the lives of many students who would otherwise be left behind.