I recently had the privilege of visiting SSMI, an MCD-aided school, where I was invited to address the bright minds of class 10 on the paths they envision for their future careers. What struck me immediately was the determination and ambition in the eyes of these students, many of whom were first-generation learners hailing from challenging backgrounds. When asked about their aspirations, a common theme emerged: they sought security and respect in their chosen professions.
In response, I opened a window to explore the myriad career paths available to them, emphasizing three fundamental conditions: interest, the ability to work hard, and a commitment to continuous learning. I made it clear that as long as these three aspects are in alignment, no dream is out of reach. It was heartening to see their faces light up as they realized the vast array of opportunities awaiting them.
But beyond individual success, I also planted a seed of thought about the importance of spreading goodness and contributing to the welfare of a larger community. I emphasized that true fulfillment in life comes not just from personal achievements but from making a positive impact on society.
However, new challenges have arisen, such as the mounting expenditures of rebuilding the school as directed by disaster management authorities. Despite efforts to keep up with financial obligations, including the 7th pay commission fees, SSMI faces a lack of support from the local corporation. Sunita Ji highlighted the disparity between cities like Mumbai, where NGO-run schools enjoy greater autonomy in managing expenses, and Delhi, where MCD-aided schools struggle to meet their needs.
SSMI itself is a testament to the power of resilience and innovation in the face of challenges. Recognized by the SABERA awards, the institution, under the leadership of Sunita Ji, has thrived despite numerous obstacles. Sunita Ji’s visionary leadership has kept the school financially stable through innovative solutions, such as empowering local women to revive indigenous crafts and create products. One notable success story is the case study of Hindbags, a project initiated by an intern from France, aimed at making SSMI financially stable by utilizing indigenous crafts. What started as an idea on paper has blossomed into a successful venture, with Hindbags now importing up to 80,000 bags monthly. Sunita Ji further empowered self-help groups to directly import these bags, ensuring sustainable income for the community employing over 100 women.
Moreover, the limitations of CSR mandates pose further hurdles. Construction projects, crucial for the school’s infrastructure, are not covered under CSR, creating additional financial strain. This disjunction between well-meaning policies and on-the-ground realities underscores the need for reforms in education and CSR frameworks to better support institutions like SSMI.
My visit to SSMI left me inspired by the resilience of its students and staff and reminded me of the transformative power of education. It reinforced the importance of not only nurturing individual dreams but also fostering a spirit of community and service. Sunita Ji and her team exemplify the spirit of innovation and determination, demonstrating that with perseverance and ingenuity, even the toughest challenges can be overcome.
