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IMPLEMENTATION
METHODOLOGY
| Once
it was decided to form Bal Panchayat, Casp Plan facilitators began
contacting children through education centers and foster children.
In fact the facilitators contacted children through any way they could,
through non-formal education class, schools, workshops etc. The main
communication mode was direct discussions with children. A painting
competition for children was also organized to initiate rapport building
and group formation. |
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The
theme of the competition was "How Casp Plan funds should be utilized
to help children". Post competition, children were invited to attend
a meeting on the same theme. At this stage the concept of a Bal Panchayat
was put forward to them. However, the concept was a little difficult for
children to grasp since they could not appreciate that they had the power
to bring about a change. Nonetheless, it was decided to organize regular
meetings for children.
To begin with informal meetings were organized where discussions focused
on what child rights are and how children were being deprived of them. Children
were encouraged to ask questions and voice any problems or issues that they
had. Topics ranged from studies, gender inequality, sibling rivalry, adolescent
problems to exploitation and child abuse. Opinions were shared on lifestyles,
children's aspirations, their perception of their surroundings etc. They
were introduced to the world beyond their society by means of discussions
on news, issues of general interest, important events happening around the
world etc. They were also told about the status of children worldwide and
how different countries were working to the benefit of children. Important
worldwide events and their impact on societies were discussed. Issues like
pollution, ozone hole, nuclear race, disarmament, poverty etc. were also
introduced. Casp Plan programs and objectives were also discussed in great
detail. Gradually children were encouraged to make minor changes in their
lives such as dressing cleanly, being punctual, attending school regularly
etc.
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The
basic idea was to increase children's level of awareness regarding
themselves, their societies and the world at large. This was very
important since to bring about any lasting change it was crucial that
children desire the change themselves. And this would happen only
when the children knew of a more meaningful and different lifestyle.
Hence, educating them about a better lifestyle, a better opportunity,
their role in the larger context of society was crucial. |
Slowly through repeated discussions and guidance, children reached a stage
where they began to believe in their ability to make a change in their life
and in the society. They also realized that to make a change they would
need to take initiative and assert themselves. Furthermore, only when they
united their forces, could they hope to make any changes. Hence, the need
to group themselves and create a platform through which they could express
themselves. At this stage they were again re-introduced to the concept of
Panchayat. They were told how a Panchayat elects representative members
on the basis of their abilities. These members once elected are responsible
for giving direction to the working of the Panchayat. They preside over
meetings and initiate efforts to bring about a change. They were made aware
of the importance eof rules and regulation necessary for the smooth functioning
of any association. Based on this knowledge children decided to form two
posts - president and secretary.
| The
formation of children into a Panchayat was a major learning experience
for children. To help them in their efforts, the facilitator worked
with them on their decision making and organizing skills. They were
taught to conduct meeting n a manner so that everyone may be heard
and to address issues so as to bring about practical results. Common
meetings of boys and girls and of children from different units were
difficult due to distances and school timings. |
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Hence,
Inter unit meetings and combined meetings of boys and girls were organized.
This gave children a chance to share experiences, address gender issues
and appreciate viewpoints other than their own.
Throughout the above process children were being continuously exposed to
various other development measures through organized workshops. These measures
included theater workshops, creativity workshops, vocational guidance, special
education, family life orientation etc. All these activities were designed
to help children identify their talents, hone their skills and develop their
personality and confidence.
Theatre Workshops
Well-known directors from India and abroad conduct these workshops. They
provide the children an opportunity for dramatic self-expression and hence,
bring about a greater understanding of the choices that life presents.
Puppet Training Workshops
Exposure to the art of puppetry has inspired children to create their
own puppets and organize a series of shows for their communities and schools.
This new skill with its capacity for conveying messages has raised children's
self-confidence and won appreciation from the community.
VideoFilmaking
Another innovative program, in video film making, children learn the
basics of camera operation, editing, and directing under the guidance of
a professional filmmaker.
Scouts & Guides Camps
These camps are very popular and children look forward to attending
them. In an environment away from home they receive training in first aid,
disciplining their lives, cleanliness, environment pollution, and developing
self-help and leadership skills.
Exposure,
Awareness & Education
Exposure to new experiences is an essential aspect of this program.
As often as possible, CASP-PLAN children are taken on outings, field trips
and visits to widen their range of experience and expose them to the world
outside the confines of their homes.
Creative Workshop
Creative workshops give children an opportunity to develop their creative
talent through expert guidance. A popular summer vacation activity, the
creative workshop has a dual advantage. It keeps children busy and away
from unproductive activities like loitering, fighting and watching inappropriate
movies. Inexpensive materials easily available in most households are
used to create beautiful objects of art and utility.
Vocational Guidance Workshops
These are conducted periodically to motivate children to consider
their future vocations and employment prospects. The children are provided
with a range of information on career opportunities in spheres like the
police, army, electrician, banking, administration, accountancy and computers.
The information includes details such as the minimum qualifications for
entry and address to which they could submit their applications.
Photography Training
Photography started out as a workshop to provide a minor learning
experience for boys in the program. It has now expanded into a vocational
training program. During the photography workshop, children are taught
various aspects of photography. They are introduced to different camera
parts, angles of shooting, light arrangements, etc. The children are also
given practical training on photo composition and development. These workshops
have given many boys an opportunity earn through photography by taking
on contracts to cover functions such as weddings in the neighborhood.
One exceptionally talented by now works as a technician in a studio.
Computer Training
Computers have proved popular with children who see in modern tools,
a chance to learn new skills that will increase their job options in the
future. Many want to make a career from computers and are keen begin advanced
classes in the subject after completing their basic training. Some have
already found jobs in this line.
Family Life Orientation
Since 1998, CASP-PLAN, Delhi has been conducting Family Life Orientation
Program in different units. The programs aimed at the 12-18 year age group,
address issues of special concern to adolescents. The program aims at
easing the confusion adolescent's face due to rural urban differences;
and due to their physical, emotional and metal development Career counseling,
skills development and training in self-reliance and empowerment are combined
with raising their awareness on subjects like reproduction, personal hygiene,
population and family planning, sexual behavior and STD, HIV and AIDS.
The atmosphere is relaxed and the young people quickly open up to their
counselors, asking questions and freely discussing their problems and
seeking guidance on emotional and career matters. The aim is to provide
teenagers with life skills that will help them develop a healthy lifestyle
and responsible sexuality.
All these programs coupled with regular Bal Panchayat meetings have gone
a long way in bringing about perceptible changes in the lives and personalities
of Bal Panchayat members.
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