Empowering & Igniting Young Minds: A New Year’s Gift of Learning and Discovery!

Inauguration of TLM cum Montessori Lab and Reading Room at Kasturba High School, Rasoolpura, Begumpet

On January 1, 2025, Build a Better Future (BBF) (https://www.bbflife.in/), an NGO dedicated to enhancing education through capacity building & infra building initiatives in rural areas and for the under-served sections of society, proudly unveiled its latest initiative at Kasturba High School, Rasoolpura—a Teaching Learning Material (TLM) cum Montessori Lab and Reading Room. This project marks a significant milestone in BBF’s journey of empowering underprivileged students and fostering meaningful learning experiences. This is their second such venture in the city of Hyderabad; the first being at Rabindra Niketan, Erramanzil.

The idea of setting up this lab and reading room was conceived with the intent to enrich the educational environment at the school. This was no ordinary task—it required extensive planning, sourcing of diverse materials, and a meticulous execution strategy. As BBF’s Secretary, I, Anjali Gupta, spearheaded this endeavour, which I can only describe as a true labour of love. Despite several hurdles, including funding constraints and delays from vendors, the vision never faltered.

Transforming Vision into Reality

The journey to establish this state-of-the-art facility was both challenging and rewarding. The process began with sourcing materials from multiple vendors to ensure the lab and reading room were equipped with high-quality resources. Each item was carefully chosen to cater to the needs of students across different age groups, with an emphasis on fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a love for learning. From Montessori apparatus to engaging TLM resources, and from curated books for the reading room to comfortable seating arrangements, every detail was thoughtfully considered.

Delays in delivery and financial constraints often tested our resolve. Yet, the unwavering support from my team at BBF and the ever-ready enthusiasm from Ms. Omeshwari, the Principal of Kasturba High School, kept us moving forward. This school holds a special place in my heart, as it was founded by Ms. Omeshwari’s parents, who were deeply committed to the cause of education and whom I had the good fortune of knowing.

A New Year Gift of Learning

The inauguration ceremony was a joyful occasion that brought together students, teachers, parents, and well-wishers. The inauguration which included the traditional lighting of the lamp of curiosity and learning along with the ribbon cutting was done by Mr. Ankur Gupta and Mr. Soumya Ranjan Choudhary – the young Turks associated in a large way with BBF.

It was heartwarming to see the smiles of students exploring their new lab and reading room, their curiosity ignited by the vibrant learning materials and the shelves lined with books. The facility aims to nurture independent learning and hands-on exploration, crucial for the holistic development of young minds.

As part of the event, we engaged with parents, sharing the purpose and potential of this new addition to the school. Many parents, especially those unfamiliar with Montessori methods or the concept of a reading room, expressed their enthusiasm and gratitude. The parents were thrilled to see the resources which made up the two rooms and keenly listened to my demos about how the TLM lab and the Reading room would be utilised for the benefits of the students. For a school with many first-generation learners, such facilities are a game-changer, offering children a stimulating environment to grow academically and personally.

A Moment of Pride and Gratitude

Reflecting on this journey, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude. The TLM cum Montessori Lab and Reading Room are more than just facilities; they represent a shared commitment to creating brighter futures. It is our New Year gift to the school and a testament to the power of perseverance and collective effort.

This achievement would not have been possible without the incredible support of our BBF team especially Ms. Maitri Mohapatra, who was always there lending her support and hand to the effort in every way, the understanding of the school staff, and the encouragement of the community. Together, we have laid a foundation that will inspire countless students for years to come.

Here’s to, “Building brighter futures, one creative classroom at a time”, I’d say!