My Experience as a CACR Volunteer.

The computer literacy programme in BMC schools is one of the most important programmes of the Citizens Association for Child Rights (CACR). It aims to educate the youth with regards to computers and their widespread practical applications, which can simplify several aspects of our life.

We at Enactus H.R College of Commerce and Economics are privileged to be involved in this programme. It enabled us to embark on a memorable journey of discovery and unadulterated joy and it inspired me to such an extent that I will fondly remember this experience till my last breath.

Volunteering at the Adarsh Nagar municipal school at Worli and teaching the students of the 6^th Standard reassured my faith in a brighter future for this generation and our country as a whole. The enthusiasm and zeal of the students was truly breathtaking!

HOW WAS IT DONE?

Our first step was convincing the headmaster about the manner in which our programme would benefit the students, so we spoke to him about our two day programme of introducing them to the ‘LibreOffice’ software. He was receptive to our ideas and gladly agreed to co-operate. We were subsequently introduced to the computer teacher, who would be present during our programme and who would assume responsibility for the rest of the days once we had played our part. The 6^th standard children were surprisingly well versed with the basics of computers. They were familiar with the components of a computer and were adept at basic functions such as ‘Cut Copy Paste’, but when asked to come forward and demonstrate, they were hesitant and appeared slightly perplexed about the procedures to be followed.

DAY 1-We started our session on the same day with a few videos on how to manoeuvre the software. We would pause it at regular intervals and explain it to them, and then show them a demonstration .This was held in the school’s Audio-visual room. The students took down notes and made a list of all the steps and instructions shown to them, since they were told that they would have to do it themselves the following day. They were also told that they would be marked on it. They had a smile on their face every time they answered one of our questions. The look of achievement in their eyes was truly overwhelming. 

DAY 2- The Practical session. It was time to put the knowledge that they had acquired on the previous day into action. We divided them into groups of two and started it off step by step. A vast majority of the students had their books open and were tirelessly trying to achieve the desired result, although some of them were reluctant to do anything unless ‘Didi’ or ‘Sir’ was standing next to them! It soon turned into a jolly competition as to who could format their document better. They used our teachings to good effect and we noticed that they knew a lot more on their departure as compared to their arrival. They were all given exercises in which they had to create a document containing their names and addresses. We helped them initially but once they got a hang of it, they started doing it on their own. They helped each other and once all of them had created the document, we conducted a mini test. We asked them to show us how they did it, and surprisingly all of them were able to answer our questions satisfactorily. They smiled everytime they heard a "very good" or a "bahut acha". Subsequently they saved their documents and rushed to the AV room where we had a small quiz session. Every correct answer fetched them a couple of chocolates...and we witnessed a marvellous sight! All the students had their hands raised up, ready to answer and even demonstrate if necessary! Their computer teacher sat there with a smile on seeing his class. He said they were never that enthusiastic about studying before.

END OF THE PROGRAMME

We reached the conclusion of our programme. The principal, who was present during the quiz, said that he was glad to see us make a difference in the lives of his students in just 2 days. He clicked a few pictures for his school book with the chirpy children and as we left he said “Ek din yeh bache asmaan chuyenge aur apke jaise log us muskaan ke liye jimedar honge”. We were ecstatic at hearing these words from such a reputable and dignified man.

In conclusion, I would like to say that CACR through their CLP are changing lives and building future entrepreneurs. Computers are the basis of today’s modernised and technologically fast-moving world. By introducing these little children to the basics, we feel like we are making a huge difference to their lives by giving them a brighter and promising future.

It gives me great pride in saying that I was a part of this initiative and I hope a lot more of us are able to contribute to projects like these. Watching eager students with their unquenchable thirst for knowledge reminded me of my youth. If our programme has inspired even one child, then I will regard it as a success. 

Was it a success? According to the response we received from the children, the answer is a resounding YES!

I love the work WE do, and I am glad I'm a part of something bigger than myself. How WE at Enactus do what we do, without counting hours, benefits or rewards. WE do what we do, because we believe that there is good in this society everywhere! And we just need to trigger it! 

-Rochelle Soares

Member

Enactus H.R College.