Enabling lives, dil se: This Bandra-based NGO celebrates creativity and learning

In the oftoverlooked slum colonies of Kherwadi a remarkable oasis of learning and aspiration has quietly flourished for more than five decades The National Society for Clean Cities India mdash Childrenrsquos Complex NSCCI is an organisation founded on a compelling blend of civic responsibility and a belief in the innate potential of every child regardless of economic background Established in 1972 by Begum Zehra Ali Yavar Jung the organisation emerged from her profound concern over the deteriorating living conditions and chronic lack of sanitation affecting Mumbairsquos vulnerable communitiesChildren are encouraged to play outdoors to promote holistic growthWhen this writer dropped by for their recent Open House called Dil Se it stood as a reaffirmation of this legacy It was far more than a display of early learning mdash it was a vibrant celebration of articulate talent discipline creativity and most importantly the transformative power of valuebased education Here preprimary academics merge seamlessly with the core virtues of integrity and respect shaping not merely literate students but thoughtful empathetic young individualsElevenpoint agendaAt the heart of NSCCIrsquos curriculum lies the 11point Caring Citizenship Programme a deeply considered framework for character development introduced by its founder and upheld with tremendous commitment to this dayCreative activities like canvas and kettle painting keep students busyThe balwadi designed its programme keeping virtues such as integrity and courage as a priority while encouraging children to be truthful and brave within their immediate worlds It elevates simple courtesy to a fundamental value alongside more nuanced principles such as consideration for others and respect for the religion language and customs of those different from oneselfA fully functional centralised airconditioned computer laboratoryPerhaps most compelling is its emphasis on cleanliness mdash personal communal and environmental The curriculum also upholds the dignity of labour and appreciation of nature ldquoWe also encourage growing our own garden and sometimes using the vegetables for making meals as well Something we take great pride in is our curry leaf plantrdquo emphasises Hasmina Khan president NSCCI mdash Childrenrsquos ComplexHealth and beyondThe impact of NSCCI extends far beyond the realm of preprimary education Today nearly 400 children aged three to five are enrolled guided by educators who foster joyful learning through animated storytelling music appreciation and singing This holistic approach is further strengthened by the provision of a nutritious midday meal milk and access to a clean medical dispensaryWomen learn to make karoticut blouses at the stitching classldquoTo make sure every child is healthy and above malnutrition a star is assigned to the child after every checkup and by the end of the year the child who has the most amount of stars gets a little gift to keep them motivated and happyrdquo said Ferzana Khanna junior secretary For older children the Complex offers an impressive range of supplementary classes to expand skills and aspirations These include remedial tutoring enrichment in computers and training in Kathak and Tabla nurturing both intellectual growth and cultural prideSkill power and selfImportantly the organisation also reaches out to the women of the surrounding communities recognising that meaningful sustainable change must begin in the home Vital vocational training programmes are designed to equip women with economically viable skills These include courses in tailoring fashion design mehndi art spoken English and a comprehensive beautician training programmeHasmina Khan right president NSCCI Childrenrsquos Complex talks to staffers outside the medical dispensaryA wellresourced library and computer laboratory further serve as shared hubs of knowledge ensuring that both children and women gain access to the literacy and digital skills essential in todayrsquos world ldquoKeep in mind an 83yearold woman was our oldest student when talking about learning computers as her son and grandchildren were abroad and digital communication was the only way to stay connectedrdquo mentions KhannaWhen asked about what the school means to her Khan summarises it best ldquoNSCCI is far more than a school mdash it is the steady beating heart of a resilient community It stands as a testament to its time mdash a belief that continues to shape uplift and empower generations We believe that there is a lot of potential in the younger generationrdquoAT Childrenrsquos Complex Road 590 Ali Yavar Jung Marg Kherwadi Bandra EastCALL 8828611427LOG ON TO nscciin