By Ms Ankita & Fr Bento for BIS Mumbai

Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra (BGVK), Ahilyanagar, with the support of Manos Unidas, conducted a series of personality development sessions across around 12 Ashram schools in the tribal blocks of Dhadgaon and Akkalkuwa. The sessions mainly reached Class 10 students, while in some schools, Class 12 students also participated.

The initiative was part of the Holistic Primary Education Project, which seeks to support students not only in academics but also in life skills, confidence, emotional wellbeing, and overall growth.

The BGVK team consisted of the Director of BGVK, Fr George D’Abreo, Ms Ankita, volunteer Ms Gloria, Sr Judith, and Project Coordinator Mr Nilesh. Together, the team visited different Ashram schools, creating spaces where students could learn, reflect, express themselves, and participate with joy.

The sessions focused on important themes such as knowing oneself, growing in confidence, and emotional wellbeing. Students were encouraged to think about their strengths, fears, goals, and the choices they make at this important stage of life. Through simple examples, interactive questions, and meaningful conversations, the facilitators helped students understand that personality development is not just about speaking well, but also about becoming self-aware, emotionally strong, responsible, and hopeful.

Fr George addressed the students on self-awareness, values, and reflections on confidence & SWOT analysis. Ms Ankita guided students through emotional wellbeing, helping them look at themselves with greater clarity and courage. Sr Judith and Mr Nilesh supported the programme through coordination, interaction with students, and on-ground facilitation.

A lively and joyful part of the programme was led mainly by Ms Gloria, who conducted dance and action songs with the students. These moments brought energy and laughter into the sessions, helping students overcome hesitation and participate more freely. The action songs and movement-based activities created a cheerful atmosphere and made the learning experience memorable.

The response from the students was heartening. In school after school, children raised their hands, answered questions, joined activities, laughed, danced, and reflected. Their enthusiasm showed the need for more such spaces where young people are not only taught, but also listened to, encouraged, and animated.

For students in Ashram schools, especially those preparing for future transitions, such sessions are deeply meaningful. They help children move beyond fear and hesitation and begin to recognise their own potential. The sessions also reminded them that confidence, communication, emotional strength, and self-belief are important parts of education.

Through this outreach, BGVK reaffirmed its belief that education must go beyond textbooks. With the support of Manos Unidas, the Holistic Primary Education Project continues to accompany rural and tribal children in their journey of growth, helping them become confident, responsible, emotionally strong, and hopeful young individuals.