Hyderabad: Ishaan and Neha, both in their high school, found themselves grappling with new challenges. Their experiences sparked curiosity about how students in government schools of a similar age were coping, especially in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. This curiosity led them to visit a nearby government school, where they interacted with the students and quickly realised that soft skills were an essential part of education, regardless of the school type. This epiphany became the driving force behind the establishment of ‘Ashayam,’ which means ‘Ambition’ in Telugu. Through Ashayam, Ishaan and Neha aim to provide comprehensive soft skills training to children in government schools, equipping them with the confidence and skills necessary to navigate any learning curve they encounter. Ashayam’s mission is ambitious, envisioning the empowerment of one million students with the necessary skills and confidence to face any challenge. The organisation focuses on various essential skills, including effective communication, teamwork, time management, creativity, problem-solving, reflection, and leadership. Each of these programs is designed to prepare students for the demands of today’s rapidly changing world. The Communication Programme is foundational, honing students’ abilities to articulate thoughts clearly, listen actively, and convey ideas with confidence. Teamwork is emphasised through interactive activities that instil the values of cooperation, synergy, and mutual respect, essential for excelling in team environments. Reflection involves guiding students through introspective exercises, helping them understand their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement, fostering a path towards continual self-improvement. Creativity is another cornerstone of Ashayam’s approach, encouraging out-of-the-box thinking and nurturing the imaginative capacities of students, empowering them to explore new avenues of expression. The Problem-Solving Program focuses on equipping students with critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective decision-making abilities, enabling them to approach challenges with confidence and resourcefulness. Time Management training teaches students strategies for setting priorities, planning tasks, and optimising productivity, ensuring they make the most of their time. Leadership development is integral to Ashayam’s vision. The Leadership Program empowers students with practical skills and a visionary mindset through interactive workshops and mentorship. Students learn decision-making, effective communication, and other crucial leadership skills. The impact of Ashayam’s initiatives can be seen in various schools across different regions. For instance, the programmes have been introduced in the Karimnagar Model School, Kokapet Govt School, and Raidurgam Govt School, each class having close to 40 students. The summer camp at home saw the participation of 25 kids, and the initiatives have even reached students in West Bengal, covering grades six to ten. Ishaan and Neha’s journey with Ashayam is a testament to their commitment to education and the holistic development of students. Their vision is to build a future where every student’s ambition knows no bounds, preparing them to thrive in an interconnected and ever-evolving world. The story of Ashayam is not just about providing training but about igniting a spark of ambition and fostering a generation of confident, skilled, and ambitious individuals ready to take on any challenge. Through their dedication and innovative approach, Ishaan and Neha have created a platform that addresses the critical need for soft skills in education, ensuring that students from government schools are not left behind in the rapidly changing landscape of today’s world. Ashayam stands as a beacon of hope and a model for others to emulate, proving that with the right support and training, every student can achieve their fullest potential.
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