by Ms Ankita Shelke

Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra (BGVK) initiated a Holistic Development Program in 21 Ashram schools at Dhadgaon, Nandurbar earlier last year. Under this initiative, the team organized personality development and reproductive health programs in six schools from July 1-6, 2024.

Fr George D'Abreo, the Rector, led the team, which included resource person Father Ajay D'Monte, staff member Ankita Shelke, and volunteers Rincy D'Souza and Jill Dias. They visited six ashram schools, working with 8th to 12th standard students.

The personality development sessions featured interactive activities, self-confidence building exercises and SWOT analysis. Students participated in a paper tower activity to recognize their own talents and uniqueness. The program also addressed understanding and managing emotions through various videos and exercises.

For adolescent girls, the team conducted sessions on menstrual health and hygiene focusing on pressing issues like managing period pain, maintaining proper hygiene during periods and dispelling myths related to menstruation. The team also distributed reusable cloth sanitary napkins to over 480 girls.

Father D'Abreo said, "Considering the situation of education in this area, what we are doing is half a drop in the ocean. But these programs are crucial for the holistic development of these tribal students. It helps them to open up and recognize their potential in many ways."

"Not many organizations wish to work in such remote and mountainous areas. These tribal communities often lack access to quality education and health information, making our work here all the more essential," he added.

In this six-day program, BGVK reached out to over 900 students. This initiative aims to promote overall development among tribal youth through targeted educational programs. BGVK plans to extend similar programs to other tribal areas in the coming months.