Report on Summer Camps – May and June 2024
Introduction: During the months of May and June 2024, a series of summer camps were organized at multiple locations in Nagpur: Asha Centre in Hazaripahad, Nirmal Jyothi Centre in Gittikhadan, Deepshika Centre in Tulsi Nagar and Dipti Signal community, Nagpur. These camps aimed to provide educational and recreational activities for children, focusing on various aspects of adolescent development and life skills.
Participants: The summer camps organized in May and June 2024 at various centers in Nagpur aimed to benefit 274 children from 12 different slum communities, such as Hazaripahad, Chintamani Nagar, Vishwas Nagar, Gond Mahula Gittikhadan, Kolpura, Bhim Tikde, Deepak Nagar,Rahul Gandhi Nagar, Dipti Signal, Tulsi Nagar, Abhumiya Nagar benefiting from the structured program designed to educate and engage them.
Educational Sessions: The camps featured sessions on important topics relevant to adolescent development and well-being:
- Changes in Adolescence: By Dr. Anusha Dewase and Dr. Shubham Kulkarni from Lata Mangeshkar Hospital. Discussions and workshops on physical, emotional, and social changes during adolescence.
- Safe Touch and Unsafe Touch: A crucial session on “Safe Touch and Unsafe Touch” was conducted by Sharayu Deshmukh PSI and Jyothi Sahare Head Constable from Gittikhadan Police Station. This session focused on educating children about personal boundaries and helping them to recognize inappropriate behaviour of others.
- Side Effects of Mobile and Addiction: an awareness session on “Side Effects of Mobile and Addiction” was conducted by Supriya Pandage API from Gittikhadan Police Station. This session was aimed to educate children about the potential negative impacts of excessive mobile usage and to promote responsible use of Mobile.
- Attraction towards Opposite Sex: A session on “Attraction towards the Opposite Sex” was conducted to guide children on understanding feelings and emotions in a respectful manner. This session was led by Madhuri Thakre WPC and Police Constable Bhushan from Kalamna Police Station.
- ICID team conducted the sessions on Peer pressure, meditation, Child Sexual Abuse and Nutrition.
Recreational Activities: In addition to educational sessions, children participated in various creative and recreational activities:
- Craft Activities: Making photo frames and flower arrangements.
- Physical Activities: Sessions on Zumba dance and action songs.
- Group Games: Promoting teamwork, coordination, and social interaction among participants.
Impact and Feedback: Feedback from participants and organizers highlighted the positive impact of the summer camps:
- Knowledge Acquisition: Children gained valuable insights into important life skills and self-developmental topics.
- Skill Development: Improved crafting abilities and physical coordination through engaging activities.
- Personal Growth: Enhanced awareness and confidence in handling challenging situations and making informed decisions.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the summer camps held in May and June 2024 were instrumental in providing holistic development opportunities for 274 children from 11 slum communities in Nagpur. By combining educational sessions with creative activities, the summer camps successfully fostered learning, growth, and recreation among participants, enriching their summer vacation experience.
The inauguration ceremony of the new academic year was held on July 3rd, 2024, at 4:00 PM at Yuvajyothi. It was a significant event, attended by children, ICID staff members, and esteemed guest Rev.Fr. Paul Pereira OP. The program commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, a symbolic gesture representing the dispelling of darkness and the ushering in of knowledge and hope.
Following this solemn ritual, a prayer was offered, invoking blessings and guidance for the upcoming academic year. The prayer highlighted themes of gratitude, hope, and resilience, setting a reflective and inspirational tone for all attendees.
The inauguration ceremony at Yuvajyothi was filled with memorable highlights:
- Welcome Speech and Flower Ceremony: The event began with a warm welcome where each new child was greeted with a flower, symbolizing their acceptance into the Yuvajyothi family. Distinguished guests Rev.Fr. Paul Pereira OP, shared inspiring stories about the importance of education and daily studies, instilling motivation in all children.
- Inaugural Address by the Director: The Director of the Organization Adv. Fr. Praveen Monteiro, delivered an impactful speech outlining the goals set for the academic year. He encouraged the boys to strive hard and seize the opportunities available to them at Yuvajyothi, fostering a sense of ambition and determination among the students.
- Snacks and Socializing: Following the formal proceedings, everyone gathered for snacks and tea, providing an opportunity for informal interactions and networking among children, staff members, and guests. This social segment allowed for further bonding and camaraderie among attendees.
- Photo Session: A group photo session was organized, capturing moments of unity and spirit among the ICID team, children, and guests. This session not only served as a memento of the event but also reinforced the sense of belonging and unity within Yuvajyothi.
