Where you are born SHOULD NOT LIMIT how far you go!
Think of a child
Boy or girl, just born Who has the whole world to explore and conquer. What's the best start she can get?
Think of the little child In a community
A village or an institution Curious, energetic, full of questions and free spirit. What do I do to preserve and nurture that?
Think of the child
And her place of learning, What is the place giving her, and treating her like Is she getting the best every moment? What is the best that I can do for that space?
Think of the young dreamer in her teens, Forming her ambitions, amidst anxieties Questioning herself: Can she or can’t she? What do I want her to believe?
Think of the youth who is full of life Faced with a thousand directions to choose from. Can I empower her To overcome everything that’s in her way And go on with what’s best for her?
Think of the toddler, child, or youth, Not with sympathy but hope. Think of her as a flower waiting to bloom, As a power waiting to be unleashed.
Think of the pride in your heart
And how she enriches your life and being when she conquers the world. And ask yourself:
It is with pride and gratitude that we present the annual report of Makkala Jagriti’s momentous year, its 20th. Over the course of two decades, there have been remarkable milestones that have been achieved thanks to the support of donors, well-wishers, volunteers, employees and all our stakeholders. But it is our children who continue to fuel inspiration and commitment day in and day out. And therefore we dedicate the celebration of thismilestoneyeartoourchildrenandyouth-thetrueheroesofoursocialmovement.
This year has been special, not just because of the celebrations. A year that we began with a renewed commitment to excellence in everything that we do, has also been one of making significant forays into consolidationandscale.Ourinvestmentsinprogramdesignandqualitycontinuetoremainhigh-wecontinued to solidify our revamped SPICE model for holistic development for children. At the same time, we have taken important steps towards knowledge partnering and scaling our work in early childhood care and education. Our interventions in Child Care Institutions continued to steadily transform them into spaces of holistic learning anddevelopment.
One of the biggest strategic shifts has been our move to harness the potential of our work with children and youth in urban poor communities into a truly integrated community transformation program with a new goal statement and a new team structure. For an organization that began its journey of empowering children in communities, this was an important shift towards strengthening our impact in the communities that we work with.
Makkala Jagriti has also seen remarkable achievements and recognitions. We have been certified as a Great Place to Work for a second successive year and have won the prestigious HCLTech grant - with which we aim to transform the early childhood education ecosystem of one of Karnataka’s most backward Taluks. We view these awards are not just testaments to the culture of people-centricity, integrity and excellence in the organization, but also as great responsibilities to continue upholding our values and commitment towards lastmileimpact.
The special year deserved special celebrations; and celebrate we did! From creating unprecedented opportunities for our children to perform on the big stage to acknowledging the support of all our partners and donors in get-togethers, from creating a film and coffee table book to celebrate our superheroes to creating an anthemthatcaptureswhatthesocialmovementdeeplymeanstoallofus,wediditall.
And amidst all of these celebrations, we continue to look forward to another two decades of growth, impact andinfinitepossibilities.Wealsolookforwardtoyourcontinuedtrust,faithandsupport.Thankyou.
Makkala Jagriti is a non-governmental organization that has been working towards facilitating holistic learning and development opportunities to children and youth from socio-economically disadvantaged sections of society since 2003. Our journey, which has now reached its 20-year mark, stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to our cause. Driven by its motto: Where you are born should not limit how far you go, Makkala Jagriti facilitates children and youth on a journey of self-discovery, encouraging them to explore their innate strengthsandpotentialthroughaholisticapproachtolearning
Central to our ethos is the belief in fostering sustainable and inclusive change through an ecosystem approach. In collaboration with parents, educators, communities, like-minded organizations, and the government, we strive to transform our vision into a social movement, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive and succeed, regardlessoftheircircumstances.
Our Vision
A value-based social movement to empower the childanditscommunitytowardsabrighterfuture.
Our Mission
To facilitate holistic development for children and diverse groups, in and around the community, to build asustainableandequitablesociety.
Our Approach
The key problem that Makkala Jagriti is trying to address is the lack of access to quality holistic development opportunities that children and youth from socio-economically disadvantaged sections of the society typically face through:
Creating age appropriate, safe and conducive learning spaces.
Facilitating age-appropriate holistic development opportunities for children and youth.
Enabling the learning ecosystem through empowering key stakeholders around the
Knowledge building and advocacy towards influencing the public education system
Strengthening practices within institutions and communities that foster holistic development.
Our Presence
VIJAYAPURA
BIDAR
KALABURAGI
YADGIRI
RAICHUR BALLARI KOPPAL MYSURU
BENGALURU URBAN TUMKUR GADAG
BAGALKOTE
BENGALURU RURAL
Makkala
Our Programs
HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT & LEARNING FOR CHILDREN
This program fosters holistic development and learning among children studying in government schools in the age group of 6-14 years through a variety of experiential learning activities based on Makkala Jagriti’s unique SPICE model.
EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE & EDUCATION
A program that empowers the Anganwadi ecosystem to provide quality early education for children aged between 3 and 6 and making them school-ready.
CHILD CARE INSTITUTIONS
This program is aimed at transforming Child Care Institutions into spaces of holistic learning and development for children in institutional care through a combination of facilitating unprecedented learning opportunities and system strengthening.
Every child deserves a great start. With 90% of brain development happening in the first five years, these years are the foundation for a child’s holistic growth. Makkala Jagriti’s Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) program is aimed at enhancing the early education ecosystem in Anganwadis. Aligning with the aspirations of NEP 2020 and SDG-4, this program works in close collaboration with the Department of Women and Child Development, Government of Karnataka to transform Anganwadis in to spaces of quality earlychildhoodeducation.
In 2023-24, we prioritized capacity building of different stakeholders to significantly enhance the quality of preschool education. Our training programs encompassed Anganwadi teachers, helpers as well as Supervisors so that Early Childhood Education in Anganwadis could be prioritized at all levels.
Through targeted training programs, we have strengthened the pedagogical skills of Anganwadi teachers, transforming them into educators who contribute meaningfully to children’s development. Helpers, too, have been equipped to enhance learning experiences by leveraging their strong connections with the children. In an innovative approach that boosts the scalability of our intervention, we have built capacities of Supervisors and select Anganwadi teachers as Master Trainers, empowering them to cascade their knowledge to the last mile.
20 trainings conducted for Anganwadi teachers
12 trainings conducted for Anganwadi helpers
2 specialized trainings conducted for 15 Supervisors and Lead Teachers (as Master Trainers)
249 Anganwadi workers trained across 9 circles by Master Trainers
Anganwadi Habba - a platform for awareness and showcasing best practices
Anganwadi teachers, who have been part of Makkala Jagriti’s interventions have not only made quality preschool education a way of life in their Anganwadis, but also are keen to showcase their learnings. At “Anganwadi Habba," held in February 2024, the teachers demonstrated effective preschool education methods to their colleagues and senior officials of the Department of Women and Child Development, reiterating the tremendous potential for enhancing ECCE in their Anganwadis and across the communities they arepartof.
Fostering best practices: Co-Visits with Supervisors
As part of our innovative approach, we conducted co-visits to Anganwadi centers alongside supervisors. These visits allowed us to observe ongoing activities while enabling Supervisors to take the lead in discussions on preschool education. This hands-on strategy facilitated the replication of best practices, ensuring consistent and effective implementation of ECCE interventions in multiple Anganwadis under the Supervisors’ purview, leading to positive outcomesforbothchildrenandtheirfamilies.
Consistent engagement leads to a positive learning environment
Bhagya Laxmi, a teacher at Tharahunasae 2 Anganwadi Center (AWC), had questions and reservations about how collaborations with NGOs would work. However, after consistent engagement over a period of time, Bhagya Lakshmi began actively participating in preschool activities, showing particular enthusiasm in personal, social, and emotional (PSE) learning. Her new energy in leading activities and trying new songs marked a positive shift. This has led to a productive partnership, creating a warm, supportive environmentforthechildren.
Enhancing learning spaces in Anganwadis
To ensure that children in Anganwadis had access to the necessary resources and environments that support their holistic development, we focused on equipping the centers with materials that enhance learning both within and beyond the classroom. Through the distribution of workbooks, learning toys, and stationery across 289 Anganwadis, we aimed to create a resource-rich environment that facilitates continued engagement. The workbooks, carefully tailored to each child’s age and developmental stage serve as vital tools for children’s learning at home. We also guided parents on how to effectively use these resources, ensuring that the learning processissupportedathome.
Collaborating for a Child’s Growth
Veeraj, a 4.5-year-old attending one of our Anganwadis, was initially reluctant to join in activities, often sitting alone and resisting guidance. After some enquiries, it was found that his home environment was not conducive, and contributing to his disengagement. A home visit followed and discussions with his grandmother and father were held. Things changed once his family understood the importance of early childhood engagement, and they began to actively support his participation. Today, Veeraj takes part with joy and enthusiasm, completing tasks eagerly. This story reflects the pivotal role family support plays in a child’s development and showcases how collaboration between teachers and families creates positive transformations in children’s learning.
Community Empowerment for ECCE
In 2023-24, we reinforced our commitment to community engagement by recognizing the vital role parents and the broader community play in the holistic development of children. Through various initiatives, we empowered parents to actively participate in their child’s early education, transforming them into key partners in the process. Monthly interactive meetings and daily instructional videos equipped parents with knowledge, while mothers' meetings helped shift perceptions, turning Anganwadis into educational hubs and encouraging healthier dietary habitsforchildren.
Additionally, home visits were conducted to reengage children post-reopening, resulting in the return of all visited children to the centers. The Anganwadi Habba event drew a large number of participants, showcasing cost-effective educational tools and fostering dialogue between teachers and the community. Celebrations such as Children's Day, Teachers' Day, and Nutrition Month highlighted creativity, teamwork, and nutritional awareness, further strengthening the community’s connection to the ECCE system and underscoring the collaborative efforts that contribute to children's well-beinganddevelopment.
27 mothers' meetings were conducted to enhanceparentalengagement.
557 home visits were carried out to reengagechildrenandensuretheirreturnto theAnganwadicenters.
Over 500 participants attended the Anganwadi Habba events, fostering community involvement in ECCE, wherein interactive stalls were set up to demonstrate cost-effective educational tools and foster dialogue between teachersandthecommunity.
Our five centers in Betta Halasuru are thriving! Increased attendance, better activities, and festivals for children have transformed Anganwadis into vibrant spaces. Heartfelt thanks for your support!
To celebrate a key milestone in children's educational journey, our Anganwadi centers hosted a special Graduation Day, marking the transition of children from Anganwadi to first grade in school. This event highlighted the progress of the children and celebrated their achievements. Parents showed overwhelming support and enthusiasm, proud to witness their children's important milestone. This initiative not only honored the children’s transition but also encouraged other parents to enroll their children in Anganwadi centers, reinforcing confidence in the role these centers play in preparing children for their continued educationaljourney.
Lakshmi Vishala Mattada, Supervisor
Anganwadi Graduation Day
Impact 2023-24
Our efforts have consistently shown positive outcomes in the development of children across various domains. Using standardized tools developed from the Department of Women and Child Development and ICDS, we assessed the progress of children in Anganwadis through in-person evaluations and teacher-led surveys. The assessment categorized children into three groups based on their performance: “Performs well,” “Emerging,” and“Needshelp.”
Children’s Outcomes
Throughout the year, we closely tracked the development of 470 children across key developmental areas. The graph below demonstrates the percentage of children performing well in each domain, highlighting their progressfromthebeginningtotheendoftheyear.
Before MakkalaJagriti’sintervention
After MakkalaJagriti’sintervention
Significant progress was observed across all developmental domains, with social-emotional and creative development showing the most notable improvements, demonstrating the program's impact on emotional regulation,socialskills,andcreativity.
Anganwadi Teacher Outcomes
The ECCE program has significantly enhanced teacher engagement, out of 70 teachers who were surveyed, 91% of teachers effectively using learning materials, improving interactions with children, and fostering a
Toys have enriched learning for children. Playtime is now engaging and educational, thanks to the training on utilizing resources. Parents are thrilled with the change, and we prioritize play for cognitive growth.
Vijaya, Helper, Ambedkar Nagar 2 Anganwadi
Holistic Development & Learning for Children in Government Schools
The Holistic Development and Learning for Children (HDLC) program provides children from disadvantaged backgrounds attending government schools, many of whom are firstgeneration learners, with a variety of opportunities for their holistic development. Aligned with the aspiration of NEP 2020, which emphasizes holistic development of children, this program is centered around our flagship SPICE model of holistic development. By creating a safe & engaging learning environment and involving key stakeholders such as teachers, parents, and the community, HDLC empowers schools to adopt child-centric practices, bridging learning gaps & helpingchildrenreachtheirfullpotential.
We implemented Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) sessions across 28 schools for grades 4 to 7, focusing on reading, writing, and arithmetic. Children had suffered learning losses as a result of the pandemic and these sessions aimed to close learning gaps in Kannada and Math, with 25 sessions conducted per grade. The sessions were activity based ensuring active engagement of children. This initiative helped build confidence and ensured proficiency in foundational skills, reflecting our commitment to improving students' literacy and numeracy.
Theme-based Holistic Development Sessions
Last year, we achieved a milestone by revamping our SPICE model and developing a theme-based curriculum for integrated learning experiences. This year, based on the revamped curriculum we incorporated 4 themes that were not only educational butalsocelebratedsignificanteventsandmilestones.
Habitat
Children explored ecosystems, plant and animal adaptations, and environmental conservation, aligning with World Environment Day to promoteecologicalawareness.
including the history of money, currencies, banking, saving, and budgeting, equipping themwithessentialfinancialskills.
These experiential and activity-based sessions are designed to enhance specific SPICE outcomes while enriching students' knowledge and deepening their understanding of their environment, health, and future responsibilities. Through engaging, hands-on learning, these sessions foster holistic growth and help students connect with real-world conceptsmoremeaningfully.
Games and Sports
This theme encouraged participation in sports, physical fitness, teamwork, and leadership. The activities were synced with school sports days and events including Pratibha Karanji (Talent day)
Food & Nutrition
This theme focused on healthy eating and the risks of junk food, leading children to incorporate more vegetables and check food labelsandexpirydates.
Through ‘SPICE’ sessions, I've learned to share and support others in group activities. My creativity and confidence have grown, and I now speak about our projects confidently. I'm more social and eager to learn.
Baganna, 8th Grade, Maralukunte School
Teacher Empowerment
Teachers are the key to the learning and success of all children. Our Teacher Empowerment Program focuses on equipping educators with creative methodologies and integrating holistic development activities into the school system.
This year, we facilitated 6 Teacher Learning Circles per school, providing a platform for reflection and collaboration on best practices around creation of Teaching Learning Materials, integration of technology and effectiveuseoflibraryresources.
Additionally two teacher workshops were conducted with 75 participants, focusing on strengthening school practices like morning assemblies, engaging notice boards, and children’s parliaments, encouraging teachers to reflectontheirgrowthandenhancetheirinvolvementinthelearningprocess.
After attending Makkala Jagriti’s workshop, Mrs. Pushpa transformed our school’s teaching approach. She shared new methods with other teachers, using resources more effectively and inspiring us to adopt innovative learning strategies
Teacher, Devarachikkanahalli
Attendance Flag Initiative at Chikka Baganala School
At Chikka Baganala Government Model School, teachers introduced the "Attendance Flag" initiative to address punctuality and attendance issues. These were persistent issues that had not got addressed effectively. After discussing this in a workshop, teachers decided to encourage attendance by awarding a flag to the class with the highest attendance each week. The impact was immediate and positive. Students now eagerly attend the morning assembly, driven by friendly competition to win the flag. The winning class proudly displays it, fostering a sense of pride and teamwork. This simple initiative has reduced absenteeism significantly, creating a positive atmosphere that values punctuality, respect, and unity, ultimately enhancing school disciplineandcamaraderieamongstudents.
Creative assemblies foster a sense of community, creative thinking, discipline and helpsbuildgeneralawareness.
Effective Utilization of Library
Librarieshavebecomevibrantlearningspaces with reading challenges, book talks, and storytelling sessions to ignite a love for reading.
School Notice Board
A revitalized notice board features student achievements, creative works, and motivational content,encouragingexcellenceandcreativity.
Student Parliament
Students take on leadership roles and engage in decision-making, organizing events, and addressing school concerns, promoting civic responsibilityandteamwork.
Integration of Technology
Teachers are supported in using projectors, smart TVs, and educational apps to make learning more interactive and relevant to the realworld.
Events in Schools
Celebrating Library Day, National Math & Science Day, & National Science Day encouraged teacher involvement & student participation, making it integral to school culture.
These initiatives have created a more engaging & supportive school environment. The student parliament has empowered students to lead & collaborate, while libraries and technology have enriched learning experiences. Events and assemblies have strengthened community bonds, and the notice board has fostered creativity and motivation.Together,thesepracticesensureholisticdevelopmentandsustainabilitywithintheschoolculture.
In-SchoolProgram: Weconductedactivity-basedEnglishclasseswithacustomizedcurriculumin15 government schools, reaching 5082 children. Complementing these sessions, we encourage school practicessuchascreativeassembliesandnoticeboards,towardsprovidingadditionalplatformsfor students to showcase their language skills. Events like "Fun with English," focusing on listening, speaking,reading,andwriting,furtherenhancetheirlearningexperience.
Exposure Trips : In December, children from 28 schools participated in exposure trips, including treks to Harhara Betta and Anjanadri Betta, visits to corporate offices, and explorations of the Vishweshwaraiah Museum, as well as rural and village life. These experiences exposed the children to the outside world, fostering an appreciation fortheenvironment,enhancingtheirscientificunderstanding,andbroadeningtheirknowledgeofrurallife.
My English skills improved through classes and support from my mentors. I recently entered and won in the Fun with English competition, boosting my confidence to keep learning.
Chennakesava, 7th Grade
Holistic Development Outcomes
The SPICE assessments, designed to evaluate children's socio-emotional, physical, intellectual, creative, and ethical development, provide critical insights into their progress across different levels and help us refine our program design and implementation. These assessments have been instrumental in understanding how children aredevelopinginvariousareas.
Children across all levels showed strong progress in socio-emotional, ethical, and physical development, with many achieving independent mastery in these areas.
School Practices
Comparatively, intellectual and creative development require further support, as the assessments suggest that many children are still in the early stages of growthwithregardtotheseskills
We are encouraged by the progress made by schools in institutionalizing practices that aid holistic development of children in schools. The advancement is marked by increased teacher and student involvement in assemblies, children’s parliament and use of libraries. Schools have shown significant improvement in managing notice boardsandhavestartedincorporatingtechnologyintotheclassrooms.
We look forward to further investment in strengthening these practices so that schools provide a variety of learninganddevelopmentopportunitiestochildrenonaconsistentbasis.
Holistic Development and Learning for Children in Child Care Institutions
Child Care Institutions (CCIs) play a vital role in India’s Juvenile Justice system, offering shelter and correctional support to children in need of care, protection, or those in conflict with the law. However, disruptions in their education highlight the need for holistic development opportunities. Makkala Jagriti’s intervention seeks to transform these government homes into safe, nurturing learning environments. We collaborate with CCIs to establish well-designed learning centers and provide facilitators who engage children in activities such as Restorative Learning Circles, Makerspace, and themebased holistic sessions. Additionally, we conduct capacity-building workshops for staff to reinforce the importanceofholisticchilddevelopment.
We have transformed government-run Child Care Institutions (CCIs) and Observation Homes into safe, conducive learning environments by carefully designing the physical spaces. We’ve created dedicated areas for focused learning, relaxation, and access to educational resources, ensuring the children have everything they need for their academic and personal growth. These spaces include a state-of-the-art computer lab, a makerspace, kitchen gardens,andevencreativeelementslikemuralart,makingtheenvironmentbothfunctionalandengaging.
Beyond the physical setup, we prioritize the emotional well-being of the children, fostering an overall atmosphere of safety and support. This includes nonjudgmental interactions, regular emotional check-ins, psychological support mechanisms, and safe corners where children can express themselves freely. Our holistic approach, enriched by activities such as kitchen gardening, ensures that CCIs are nurturing spaces where children can thrive and achieve holistic development. A notable milestone was the inauguration of Kalpana Gruha at Bangalore Boys Home, featuring a state-of-the-art computer lab and makerspace, promoting collaborative learning and skilldevelopmentforthechildren.
Holistic Development Opportunities for Children
We provide a range of holistic development opportunities for children through SPICE sessions, restorative practice circles, life skills training, art integration, physical activities, library access, and seasonal camps. Key activitiesinclude:
Life Skills Training
These sessions focus on socio-emotional development, enhancing children's emotional intelligence, selfawareness, and interpersonal skills through modules covering topics like managing emotions, building healthy friendships, effective communication, and substance abuseprevention.
Restorative Practice Circles
These circles foster empathy, respect, and equality, creating safe spaces for children to share personal challenges and reflect on important life topics like trust, peer influence, and friendship, which have helped children open up about emotional struggles and improve theirabilitytomanagerelationships.
Indoor and Outdoor Games
Conducted multiple times a week, these activities not only promote physical fitness but also teach children teamwork, leadership, decision-making, and cognitive skills like problem-solving and strategic thinking through games like volleyball, chess, and traditional Indiangames.
Makerspace
A creative, hands-on space at the Bangalore Boys Home where children can explore, experiment, and build projects using various materials and tools, nurturing innovation, curiosity, and practical problemsolvingskills.
Computer Sessions
Basic computer skills are introduced to children to increase their digital literacy, allowing them to gain confidence in using educational software and typing, which is crucial for their future learning and employmentopportunities.
Theatre and Art Workshops
These workshops allow children to express themselves through performance and art, boosting their confidence, communication skills, and collaboration while also providing an emotional outlet and enhancingsocialandcreativedevelopment.
Exposure Visits and Adventure Camps
Opportunities like Children's Day celebrations & trips to Hampi & Ramanagara Adventure Camp help children interact with diverse communities, and build resilience through cultural exchange and outdoor adventures.
Hosa Chethana (Virtual Life Skills Sessions)
These virtual sessions, held weekly across 12 observation homes, aim to develop resilience, self-confidence, & problem-solvingabilitiesbyimprovingchildren'semotionalintelligence&communicationskills.
Makkala Jagriti
Institutionalizing best practices
We have supported the institutionalization of some of the best practices across Child Care Institutions (CCIs) and ObservationHomes.Theseinitiativesareaimedatimprovingtheoverallwell-being,education,anddevelopment ofchildren:
Safe Corners: Created dedicated spaces within homes to offer children a comforting environment where they canfeelsecureandemotionallysupported.
Learning Routine: Developed structured learning routines to ensure consistent educational engagement andpromoteacademicgrowthwithinthesehomes.
Regular Time for Library Usage: Introduced dedicated times for children to access the library, fostering a readingcultureandenhancinglearningopportunities.
Children’s Committees: Established in 20 CCIs and one Observation Home, empowering children to participate in decision-making around their education, healthcare, and recreation, ensuring their voices are heard.
These initiatives are helping to institutionalize a child-centric approach across the facilities, ensuring the holistic development of children in theircare.
Kitchen Gardening: Implemented kitchen gardening initiatives that teach sustainability and responsibility, recognized by the JJ Board and highlighted in a report to the Supreme Court for their positive impact onchildren.
Makkala Jagriti classes feel like home. I've learned so many new things and life skills. The mural art workshop was my favorite; I learned cool ways to paint and got more creative. I love every class and the trips we go on.
Ananya (Name changed), 8th Std, Govt Children Home for Girls, Bangalore
The "Moonlight Dinner" is a unique initiative that provides children in care with a memorable dining experience under the stars. On a designated evening, children and CCI staff gather in an open space or on the terrace to share a meal together. Originally started in one home, this cherished traditionhasnowbeenembracedby6moreinstitutions.
The idea of the Moonlight Dinner was first introduced during a CCI staff workshop conducted by Makkala Jagriti. Thanks to the supportive environment created by Makkala Jagriti, staff were able to share the concept, inspiring other homes to adopt it as well. This special event nurtures a sense of wonder, creativity, and community while reinforcing essential values such as healthy eating and social interaction. Makkala Jagriti continues to play a pivotal role by creating forums where impactful practiceslikethiscanbesharedandimplementedwidely.
The trip to Chitradurga was amazing! I learned a lot about history and saw new places. It was a great experience outside school and home, and I’m happy I
Bonding over Moonlight Dinner
CCI Staff Capacity Building
The staff of Child Care Institutions (CCIs) play a critical role not only in providing care but also in fostering children's learning and development. A key component of our intervention is empowering CCI staff to adopt child-centric practices and effectively handle challenging situations. To ensure this, we provide regular capacitybuildingopportunitiesforthestaff.
Ourinterventionincludes:
Regular Monthly Meetings: These meetings serve as platforms for government staff and Makkala Jagriti (MJ) teamstoreviewprogress,addressissues,andtakenecessaryactionstoimprovetheenvironmentinCCIs.
Online Staff Capacity Building Sessions (twice a month): Initiated in 2021 and continuing with good participation from the staff to date, these sessions focus on critical topics such as child-centric approaches, mentalhealthawareness,non-judgmentalinteractions,andmanagingbehavioralissues.
In-person Capacity Building Workshops: We conducted a state-wide workshop involving 38 participants from 18 districts, reflecting on cumulative learnings and showcasing successful practices. The workshop featured interactive activities on communication and group discussions on addressing work challenges, building on strengths, and supporting holistic child development. Senior Representatives from Directorate of Child Protection participated, recognizing the staff's efforts in creating safe, inclusive, and conducive learningenvironments.
Impact 2023-24
This year, we took the opportunity of assessing the impact of our interventions in Child Care Institutions over a period of three years. The impact of the program is seen in terms of creation of safe spaces in the institutions, children’soutcomesandstaffempowermentoutcomes.
Creation of safe, joyful, non-threatening spaces
There is a marked improvement in the learning environment in the children’s homes through the creation of a dedicated learning center, easy access to learning resources and creation of a learning-oriented routine. More importantly consistently engaging with children in a non-threatening and non-judgmental manner by our facilitatorshasledtoagreatersenseofwell-being.
Inasurveyconductedacross500+children
97% children felt safe and happy at the CCIs post the intervention (up from 53%)
82% children feel safe and comfortable to express their thoughts freely (up from 40%)
Revitalizing Children's Committee in CCIs
Children’s Committees in CCIs offer a valuable platform for autonomy, decisionmaking, and leadership development. However, there is room for significant improvement in terms of their functioning. Recognizing this need, our facilitators and coordinatorspersistentlyadvocatedwithoneoftheSuperintendentstoreactivateit.
Subsequently, collaborative efforts with the Home staff helped bring the committee back to life. A transparent voting process was held, where children selected committee members under the guidance of institution staff and our team members. The children showed immense enthusiasm, with eight candidates competing and every child casting a vote. The top five winners were announced, and the Superintendent assigned roles, giving children an orientation on their duties. This revitalization effort brought joy and purpose to the CCI and empowered children to actively contribute to their community, fostering responsibility and leadership. This success story underscores the power of collaboration in creating growth opportunities for young minds. Going forward, we aimtorevitalizetheseCommitteesinallHomesthatarepartofourintervention.
Holistic development of children:
Children have made use of the opportunities for learning and exposure to enhance their emotional wellbeing, social skills, and demonstrate better learning and creativity. Children’s emotional wellbeing is indicated by their ability to feel safe to express as well as managing their emotions. Development of social skills is reflected in children’s ability to make new friends, collaboration with others and ability to overcome their mistakes. Children’s learning and creativity has improved by more opportunities to move around and play, learn more thingsorengageincreativeactivitiessuchasart,music,orbuildingthingshands-on.
Children: Pre and Post impact of the Makkala Jagriti CCI Program
Thanks to MJ’s ecosystem approach, engaging with staff of CCIs is one of the key elements of our program. Our constant engagement and capacity building initiatives have helped the staff advance their knowledge and practices in being more child-centric and prioritizing the holistic development needs of children. Relationships of the staff and children have also been strengthened with more empathy, trust, practices of active listening and treatingchildrenwithrespect.
Other than that staff also showed increase in knowledge of child-centric approach, JJ Act guidelines and strategiestomanagedifficultemotionalsituationswithchildren.
Importance of Child Centric Approach
Juvenile Justice Act Guidelines
Strategies to manage difficult emotional situations with children
Importantly the CCI staff have reported improvements in their own practices at the institution - ranging from treatingchildrenwithrespecttohandlingchildren’semotionalissuesinabetterway.
How CCI staff are demonstrating child-centric practices
Overall the program is making significant strides in transforming Child Care Institutions into spaces of holistic development for children in multiple ways. Some of the most valuable, but immeasurable contributions of the program include facilitators becoming attachment figures and role models for the children, while also creating happyandpositivelifetimememoriesforchildren,whomostneedthem.
Community Transformation
Makkala Jagriti’s Community Transformation program fosters holistic development for children and youth across age groups in urban poor communities by providing diverse learning and growth opportunities. By creating age-appropriate engaging spaces in the communities and facilitating learning and exposure, the program nurtures young individuals into tapping their potential and becoming role models. The program also enables parents and community members to actively contribute to children’s learning and support in their journeyfromschoolreadinesstolifereadiness.
Empowering the youngest learners in the community (3 to 6 year olds)
In 2023-24, we intensified our efforts to improve the quality of preschool learning across seven Anganwadis in the communities where we work. Through a multi-faceted approach, we ensured structured, impactful early childhoodeducationforchildren,supportedbyteachers,parents,andthebroadercommunity.
Enhanced Learning Environment: Murals created by local volunteers and the RGRF Foundation transformed Anganwadi centers into vibrant, child-friendly spaces. Facilitators in Gopalapuram, Vallurvarpuram, and VV Giri Colony demonstrated best practices, significantly improving the learning environment andmakingitmoreengagingforchildren.
Capacity Building for Teachers: We conducted four comprehensive training sessions for Anganwadi teachers, aligned with the Chili-Pili curriculum. These sessions combined theory and practical application, transforming teachers from caretakers into empowered educators. Facilitators provided ongoing support, helping teachers apply new techniques and establish consistentroutines.
Parental and Community Engagement: Ten monthly meetings and home visits were conducted to actively involve parents in their children's development. Home visits played a crucial role in re-engaging children with Anganwadi centers post-reopening. Parents were educated on the importance of nutrition, with many adopting healthier habits for their childrenbydiscouragingjunkfood.
Mithun, once a shy, tearful child, now eagerly joins activities and greets each day with joy. On ECCE Day, he proudly guided me through activities, showcasing his new confidence. Grateful for the personalized care that helped him blossom.
Events: Nutrition Day, Children’s Day, and ECCE Day were celebrated across six Anganwadis, engaging over 100 parents and children in activities focused on nutrition, developmental skills, and early childhood education practices
Ramya, Parent, Valluvarpuram Community
Holistic Development Opportunities through Community Learning Centres
Our Community Learning Centres serve as safe, nurturing havens for children aged 6 to 14. These centres are hubsoftransformation,wherechildrenengageindiverseactivitiesthatpropeltheiroverallholisticdevelopment.
Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN)
FLN Sessions have enhanced children's reading, writing, and arithmetic skills, with remarkable improvements in Kannada and English proficiency, especially among Hindi-speaking children. These sessions have ignited a passion for reading and boostedindependentwritingabilities.
A bouquet of learning activities
Storytelling, painting, drawing, & crafts to unlock creativity; using library to develop a love for reading and improve vocabulary; dance & games to enrich their social and physical development are just some of theactivitiesthatourchildrenengagein.
Theme-Based Holistic Learning
This year’s focus on "Games and Sports" and "Habitat" fostered teamwork, creativity, and a keen understanding of environmental ecosystems and food chains.
Academic Support
Comprehensive support in core subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science has empowered students to progress academically. Personalized attention for slow learners, daily homework assistance, and special academic interventions have significantly increased schoolengagementandperformance.
Weekly Computer and STEM Sessions
These sessions have sparked curiosity and encouraged critical thinking, equipping children with problemsolvingskillsessentialforatechnology-drivenfuture.
Vaishali’s Journey to Self-Confidence
Vaishali (name changed), an 8th-grade student, joined Makkala Jagriti Learning Centre four years ago as a shy child with low self-esteem. Family challenges and body shaming left her introverted and fearful of speaking English. Over time, with support from our facilitator and her peers, she improved in academics and dance, gained confidence, and became socially active. A community awareness program helped change her mother’sviewonbodyshaming,leadingtogreateracceptanceathome.
Today, Vaishnavi performs well academically, is a class leader, and feels confident speaking in public. Her journey reflects the empowering environment of the Learning Centre, transforming her into a motivated, confident individual.
Broadening Horizons Beyond the Centre
Exposure and Learning Opportunities: Children immersed in enriching experiences through nature workshops, museum visits, treks, marathons, and science exhibitions. A highlight of the year was Teach for India’s musical show “Conference of Birds” on India’s Constitution, which opened their perspectives and also a desire to perform similarly on the big stage.
Events and Celebrations: Our centres provide platforms for cultural enrichment and awareness-building. Celebrations of Child Rights Week, International Yoga Day, and World Environment Day, along with national festivals like Republic Day and Pongal, have fostered a sense of community, responsibility, and belongingamongchildren.
A Study on the Status of Children & Youth in VV Giri colony
Kantar, a market research organization, and Makkala Jagriti conducted a study on the status of children and youth in VV Giri Colony covering 407 households with 485 children and 195 youth. A key aspect of this initiative was that the youth of our program learned survey methods and actively participated as surveyors in the study. The findings highlighted critical issues and the need for intervention for holistic development.
Two out of three youths in VV Giri Colony have not completed SSLC, and 76% are stuck in low-paying jobs.Additionally,thereareyouthatbeingathighriskofsubstanceabuseanddeviantbehavior.
74% of children live in single-room houses, lacking a conducive learning environment. Over half of the children (52%) expressed difficulties in understanding Maths and Science concepts, and 41% struggled withlearningEnglishandKannada.
Despite these challenges, parents go out of their means to provide a good education for their children, often perceiving private English medium schools as offering better quality education. The study recommends Makkala Jagriti’s interventions for the holistic development of children. Kantar was awarded second prize at thenationallevelbytheMarketResearchSocietyofIndiaforthisstudyintheCommunityProjectcategory.
Empowering Community Youth through Yuva Jagriti
Yuva Jagriti, Makkala Jagriti’s flagship program for youth aged 17 to 24, equips young individuals from urban poor communities with the essential skills they need to succeed in life and work. The program offers a comprehensiverangeofactivitiesdesignedtofosterpersonalandprofessionalgrowth
Life Skills and SEL Sessions: Through 57 interactive sessions, youth develop crucial life skills such as selfconfidence, leadership, communication, and mindfulness. These sessions also teach effective time management, decision-making, and resilience, helping participants navigate challenges both in personalandprofessionalspaces.
Spoken English and Personality Development:
Focused on employability, this training enhances participants' command of spoken English and prepares them for professional environments. With mock interviews, group discussions, and personality development workshops, participants improve their articulation, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills, making them more confident in interviewsandworkplaceinteractions.
Exposure Visits and Career Guidance: Participants engage in exposure visits to companies like Simeio and EXL Technologies, where they interact with industry professionals and observe real-world work environments. Career guidance sessions, featuring motivational talks from professionals offered insights into various career paths, building aspirations to work in sectors like IT, finance, and operations. These experiences help youth align their skills with industrydemands.
Scholarship Linkages
Weekend Perspective-Building Sessions: Weekend sessionsandworkshopscoveressentialtopicssuch as women’s safety, mental health, and financial literacy. Engaging activities like crafts, yoga, and sports are also included to promote holistic wellbeing. These sessions encourage participants to broaden their perspectives on social issues and build practical skills for life, contributing to both their personal growth and their ability to engage meaningfullywiththeworldaroundthem.
Job Linkages: Around 75% of job-seeking youth were successfully placed in roles such as telecalling, marketing, backend operations, data entry, and packaging. They secured jobs with reputable companies like Paytm, Athena BPO, Prime Placement Pvt Ltd, and Shriram Life Insurance, gaining access to financial independenceandcareergrowth.
Nineteen children and youths received the Intuit Scholarship for Girls and individual donor support for secondary, pre-university, and degree education. This support boosted motivation, improved academic performance, and provided financial relief to families. Apart from Intuit scholarship, 3 youths were supported by individualdonorstopursuetheirdegreeinCommerce.
Culture Rupture - An exploration of their community through art
Culture Rupture was an art series workshop aimed at encouraging youth to re-examine their everyday spaces and experiences, discovering the diverse cultures that emerge from them. Facilitated by Shivani, an intern from the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad, the workshop includedexperientiallearningsessionsinphotography,videos,andmodel-making.14youthfrom Gopalapuram actively participated, exploring and expressing their experiences through art and design.
As part of the initiative, the youth observed the world around them and captured it in photography. Furthermore, they created a collaborative model of their own community using 100% recycled materials, which was presented at multiple public events including at Bangalore Creative Circus. The youth got an excellent opportunity to express themselves, appreciate and celebrate one another's cultures, fostering a sense of secularism, and critical thinking. The experiencealsoincreasedtheirprideandsenseofresponsibilityabouttheirowncommunity.
“As a girl, I used to walk head down in my community without as much bothering what is around me. Culture Rupture helped me look up and explore the world” Pooja, a participant.
Impact 2023-24
The Community Transformation program provides a transformative experience to all stakeholders who we reach through the interventions - from young children to youth, parents and teachers. Here are some of the key outcomesoftheprogramwitnessedintheyear.
80% More than 80% of the children in the age-group of 3 to 6 years enrolled in Anganwadis within the communitieshaveshownprogressacrossvariousdomainsofdevelopment.
Anganwadi teachers have developed essential skills of preschool education through regular training and handholding. They have also been instrumental in increased enrolment of children in Anganwadis. 7
53%
53% children in the age-group of 6 to 14 years demonstrated their competencies in Social & Emotional Learning and life skills such as self-awareness, managing emotions, communications, team-workandproblemsolving.
91% youth who were part of the Yuva Jagriti program reported improved self-awareness, includingrecognizingstrengths,growthareas,andbeingawareoftheiremotions
60%
More than 60% of the youth reported improved decision making and problem solving skills - the abilitytoanalyzetheirsituationsandmakeinformedchoices.
The interventions have also helped youth enhance their internal competencies and confidence with regard to their livelihoods. While nearly 62% youth feel confident about handling interviews, a healthy79%youthexpressedclarityabouttheircareergoals
60%
More than 60% of the youth reported improved decision making and problem solving skills - the abilitytoanalyzetheirsituationsandmakeinformedchoices.
75% job seeking youth are employed and on the path to improved quality of life and financial independence 75%
Our 20 year Journey
20 years back, Makkala Jagriti was born out of a quest to ensure that quality education was accessible to children from marginalized communities. It was a dream that Joy Srinivasan, our founder nurtured for long. Over the past two decades, our journey has been dedicated to ensuring that every child has the right to learn, dreambig,andachievetheiraspirations.
Celebrating the Stakeholders
A 20-year journey is not possible without the unwavering support of donors, collaborators friends and wellwishers. We took the opportunity to celebrate this milestone with all our stakeholders in a special event which brought together among others, the earliest donors, inspiring volunteers, teachers who are experiencing change on the ground and our children who dream big. Listening to all the voices and reflecting on the achievements over 20 years, we created a truly memorable occasion with positivity and hope filling the atmosphere.
Alumni Meet: A Walk Down Memory Lane
Continuing our celebrations, we had the joy of reuniting with our alumni, individuals who were once part of the Makkala Jagriti programs. The alumni meet was a heartwarming event filled with nostalgia and reflection. Reconnecting with these remarkable individuals and hearing their stories was a testament to the lasting impact of our mission. Our alumni have grown into role models and changemakers within their communities, embodying the values and dreams we instilled in them. Their continued dedication to making a positive difference reaffirms theimportanceofourworkandfuelsourdeterminationtokeepspreadingknowledgeandinspiration.
Makkala Jagriti
Creative assets to celebrate the movement
ur expressions of what Makkala Jagriti stands
Inour20yearjourney,there have been many superheroes unleashed. The milestone year was a great opportunity to makeafilmthatcaptureshowchildrenandyouthofMakkalaJagritiarediscoveringthe light within themselves and spreading rays of home and positivity through their stories. By bringing glory to the country, by not giving up on dreams, by challenging social norms or by just believing in their own selves, Makkala Jagriti‘s superheroes script their
AtrulyspecialheartfeltsongwascomposedtocelebratethespiritofMakkalaJagriti. Thesongcapturesanoutpouringofinnocence,love,confidenceandhope-feltbyour children. Serving as an anthem to inspire our future journey, the song expresses our desiretobuildanewworldfilledwithlove,freedomandequit
With contributions gifted by Karnataka's leading singers including Vasu Dixit, MD Pallavi, Ananya Bhat, Nakul Abhyankar, Gubbi and put together carefully by Gurupriya Atreya - a dedicated volunteer and an ambassador of Makkala Jagriti’s values,thissongisacelebrationofthemagicoftogetherness
Every child has a dream—Doctor, Teacher, Artist, Cricketer. At Makkala Jagriti, our mission has always been to help children dream beyond what’s expected of them, to reach for what once seemed out of reach. This book shares the inspiring stories of 11 children and youth who have done just that,eachfindingtheirownuniquepaththroughresilienceandcourage.For the past 20 years, we’ve been nurturing dreams, empowering children to seebeyondlimitationsandtruly“dreamoutofsyllabus.”
CapturedfromthepracticesessionsofMakkalaRaaga
AshotfromMakkalaJagritiAnthem
CapturedduringMakkalaJagritiAnthemrecording
We remain grateful to all the contributors who created magic with the film, song and the coffee table book. In particular, we would like to thank Talented, 100 Feet Films, Gurupriya Atreya, Mahesh SP, contributing singers, and the children and youth of Makkala Jagriti, whose indomitable spirit stands out through these creatives.
Makkala Jagriti
Makkala Raaga: A Celebration of Infinite Possibilities
'Makkala Raaga 2023' was the highlight of our anniversary celebrations. Held at the prestigious Chowdiah Memorial Hall, the event was a spectacular display of talent and dedication, featuring performances by nearly 400 children from across Makkala Jagriti’s centers. Children were trained by Artmos - one of India’s leading art production houses. The mesmerizing performance of the children captivated an audience of 2000 people over two grand shows. The musical and dance extravaganza presented by our children celebrated the diversity and grandeur of India and her seasons.
Makkala Raaga is more than just a magical performance - it is a testament to our children's unyielding spirit and determination to aspire and thrive; a statement that the children of the communities we serve are second to none. It is an unforgettable, life-defining opportunity for the children who are part of it with permanent impressions on their minds that nothing is beyond their reach.
A mesmerising musical & dance extravaganza
When I first went on stage, When I first went on stage, I was super scared, but the I was super scared, but the audience was awesome. Their audience was awesome. Their cheers made me forget my cheers made me forget my nervousness. My parents were nervousness. My parents were so so proud of me. It wasn't just proud of me. It wasn't just
Lavanya, 7th Grade Lavanya, 7th Grade
Volunteer Engagement
Makkala Jagriti, with its diverse programs, provides numerous opportunities to volunteers for making a meaningful impact on children and youth from underserved backgrounds. In this milestone year of the organization, we are proud to record the highest number of volunteers and volunteering hours in our journey so far. Volunteers from all backgrounds have made a lasting impact, and we are grateful to everyone who involved andmadeadifference.
Corporate volunteers from organizations such as JP Morgan, Alstom, Allegis, Goldman Sachs, Tata Elxsi, BNP Paribas, Delta Airlines, Luxoft, HyVee, Maersk, Taj Hotels, and Google have made significant contributions and have been driving positive change. Over 50 volunteering initiatives were orchestrated through the year, each leaving alastingimpact.Notableinitiativesinclude:
Volunteers from Goldman Sachs and Luxoft revamped libraries, adorned school walls with educational art, and distributed school supplies.
Tata Elxsi and Google volunteers beautified community centers with muralart.
Allegis engaged in diverse activities such as sports days and summer camps,benefittingboththecommunityandthevolunteers.
This year, we celebrate having the highest number of volunteers ever, reflecting the boundless possibilities volunteers can create.
The transformation of a dilapidated school into a vibrant learning space within six months, courtesy of dedicated Google employees. This project exemplified the incredible impactthatconcretedvolunteereffortscanachieve.
ScantheQRCodeto watchthe transformationvideo
We also recognize other significant efforts of 355 Alstom volunteers creating over 95 sets of Teaching Learning Materials for Anganwadis. We also thank Taj Hotels for organizing a tour of the art gallery at Chitra Kala Parishad for the youth of the Gopalpuram community, which provided enriching exposure to them.
The enthusiasm and energy of college and university volunteers have invigorated our initiatives with fresh perspectives and creativity. Students from institutions such as Mount Carmel College, St.Joseph College, Christ University, SDM College Dharmasthala, Nagarjuna College of Management Studies, Tumkur University, Bangalore City University, and Bangalore University have made significant contributions. These young volunteers taught in our centers, created unique educational content, organized workshops, painted wall murals, organized and assisted during big events, acting as inspirational rolemodelsforthechildrenweserve.
“It was heartwarming and soul-nourishing to drive social engagement with these kiddos with storytelling and public speaking activities. Giving back never felt so good, especially because these kids are whip-smart with tremendous potential. The genuine affection and sincere appreciation from the kids were uplifting, and the zeal I felt to satisfy the kids’ intellectual curiosity was compelling. No doubt giving back as an individual is fulfilling, but it's empowering to think about the scale of the gift we can give collectively and organizationally!!”
Supriya Murthy
Our People: Our Greatest Asset
At Makkala Jagriti, our most valuable asset is our dedicated and passionate team of employees. Whether it is the incredible accomplishments of the past or the dreams for the future, our people remain the driving force behind ourmissiontoempowerchildrenfromdisadvantagedcommunities.
In the year 2023-24, our team members, coming from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, have united with a shared commitment to making a positive impact on children's lives. We are a youthful team with the average age being approximately 31 years. Whether facilitators and coordinators in the field, program managers, enablers, oradministrativestaff,eachindividualplaysapivotalroleinbringingourinitiativestolife.
Recognizing that our employees are central to our mission, we prioritize their growth and development. We understand that an empowered and well-equipped team can drive meaningful change. Throughout the year, we've invested in capacity-building programs for our employees, enabling them to excel in their roles while contributingtotheirpersonalandprofessionalgrowth.
I resonate deeply with the belief that where you are born need not decide how far you go. My journey with Makkala Jagriti has been a testament to this philosophy, offering me numerous opportunities that have shaped my personal and professional growth. This organization has provided a safe space for me to challenge my own doubts and perceptions, fostering a supportive environment where I can truly thrive.
One of the aspects I love most about the culture at Makkala Jagriti is its respect for individual autonomy. Here, no one is pushed without their consent. Instead, I feel motivated to push myself because I want to grow and improve. This empowering atmosphere has allowed me to make collective choices with confidence, leading to a greater sense of peace and self-acceptance. I have learned to embrace both my strengths and my weaknesses.
As a leader, this self-awareness has been invaluable. It has enabled me to create similar safe spaces and opportunities for my team and fellow employees. By fostering an environment of mutual respect and encouragement, I strive to ensure that everyone has the chance to realize their full potential, just as I have at Makkala Jagriti.
Preethi Naveen, Program Manager - Child Care Institutions
We foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement, encouraging our team to stay updated with best practices in education, child development, and community engagement. This investment not only benefits our employeesbutalsoamplifiestheimpactofourprogramsonthechildrenweserve.
Some notable capacity-building initiatives in the past year include program-specific trainings spanning more than 15 days for all program team members, covering aspects of knowledge, skills, and personal effectiveness. Our mid-level leaders, the coordinators, also participated in a specially tailored leadership developmentprogramfacilitatedbyourfounder,JoySrinivasan,andco-facilitators.
Makkala Jagriti Annual Report
Governing Board and Leadership
Joy Srinivasan Chairperson&ManagingTrustee Founderandleadingchangeagentat MakkalaJagriti,Formerpresident, ISABs ODConsultantandInternational LeadershipandBehaviouralSciences Trainer.
The year 2023-24 was certainly a year of celebrations and achievements. While turning 20 is a remarkable milestone in Makkala Jagriti’s journey, it also fills us with ambitions and responsibilities for the journey ahead. Makkala Jagriti has been on a path of growth over the last five years and we are poised to grow further. At the same time, we are committed to enhance the quality of our interventions by investing in design as well as monitoring&evaluation.Intheforthcomingyear,wehaveoutlinedthefollowingaskeypriorities
Scaling our Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) intervention: With a proven track record of transforming Anganwadis into vibrant spaces of early childhood education and good credibility with the Department of Women and Child Development, we aim at partnering with the government to catalyze the prioritization of early childhood education in Anganwadis at all levels through capacity building and knowledge partnering. By collaboratively building cost-effective strategies with the Department, we hope to embark upon Taluk and District levelscaleinterventionsinECCE.
Sustainable practices in Government schools: We are creating sustainable components within our Holistic Development and Learning for Children program in schools. Enhancing the quality of school practices that aid holistic development and teacher empowerment will be prioritized so that our interventions have lasting effects. Recognizing these skills as critical for future success, we are incorporating an English language intervention into our holistic development model. This will enable us to provide a more comprehensive educational experience, helpingchildrenbuildessentiallanguageskillsalongsidetheiroveralldevelopment.
intensive intervention model with potential for deep impact across age groups.Having reimagined and restructured the program in the previous year, we shall continue to invest in designing impactful program components that enhance the quality of engagement with children and youth.There shall also be investment in understanding of community needs and employing innovative strategies such as empowering families and communities,sothatyoungpeopleinourcommunitiescanthrive.
Additionally, our intervention with Child Care Institutions shall also be strengthened by focusing on capacity building of staff of the institutions and fostering best practices across all the institutions that we work with towards lasting transformation of CCIs into spaces that provide holistic learning and development for children. We aim to leverage our credibility with the Department to ensure that holistic learning in all institutions is prioritized. We recognize the need for continued investment in foundational literacy and numeracy for children across programs andshallfocusonthesame.
The strategic goal of the organization remains focused on amplifying the impact that we are making through scale, knowledge partnership and evidence-based advocacy. We are in the process of building solid ground for the same through rigorous monitoring and evaluation and improved program design. As a people-centric organization,ourfocusshallalsobeonpeopledevelopmentalongwithstrengtheningtheprocesses.
In summary, the upcoming year presents us with exciting opportunities to further our social movement that empowers young people and their communities towards a brighter future. We remain grateful and look forward tocontinuedsupportandguidancefromalloursupportersandstakeholderstocontinueonthismission.
