This university’s NSS initiative bridges communities, introducing village students to education

On November 29, 2024, Apeejay Stya University (ASU) played host to 50 enthusiastic students from the Government Senior Secondary School, Silani, an adopted village. The students accompanied by their teachers explored the ASU campus under the guidance of the National Service Scheme (NSS). This carefully planned event helped to establish ties between the university and its community, giving young minds a look at what existed beyond higher education. The visit emphasized the importance of education as a transformative tool, especially for students from rural areas, who rarely get such exposure.

The event was in line with the continuing efforts of ASU towards the development of community linkages through holistic education. By hosting students from its adopted village, the university reinforced its role as a key contributor to local educational development. The visit marked an important step in bridging the educational gap. This was evident from the participation of higher education institutes in opening up access routes for underprivileged communities.

According to Dr Vijay Kumar, Programme Coordinator, NSS-ASU, various studies show that learners in government schools particularly in rural areas require handholding and support to succeed in life. “The NSS-ASU and its volunteers from the School of Education organised a visit of students from one of the adopted village schools. It was fantastic to see that these students and accompanying teachers were very satisfied with the visit. The visit will motivate students, particularly girls, to study hard and go for higher studies,” he shared.

The mission entailed:

·         Building stronger partnerships between the university and local schools.

·         Enhancing awareness of higher education opportunities among rural students.

·         Providing hands-on exposure to cutting-edge academic facilities.

·         Inspiring young minds to dream big and aim for rewarding career pathways.

A memorable campus experience

The day started with a warm welcome by the NSS volunteers who guided the visitors with an engaging schedule. The visitors were taken to state-of-the-art facilities like the computer and science labs, art studios, as well as expansive sports grounds. Each space highlighted the importance of innovation and multi-disciplinary learning.

The students were amazed as they toured the spaces with the advanced technologies and resources available. For most, it was their first time getting exposure to such facilities, thus making them curious and excited. The exposure to diverse fields provided a unique opportunity to envision their future in higher education.

The interaction gave the students an invaluable experience of talking to professors and NSS volunteers. These interactions offered insights into diverse academic disciplines like Computer Science, Biosciences, Media, Sports, and Arts. This discussion on the pathways and the programmes available at the university sparked an aspiration among the students to look up higher education for their future.

The hands-on learning sessions conducted in the labs helped the students link theoretical concepts from their curriculum in school with real-time applications. Whether it was observing experiments in the science lab or exploring creative tools in the art studio, the students left inspired and curious. For many, this visit was the first step toward imagining new possibilities for their careers.

Beyond the academic exposure, the students were able to make meaningful social interactions. The students confidently related to university volunteers and faculties. For the teachers, witnessing this engagement opened new avenues for integrating experiential learning into their classrooms.

NSS volunteers, on the other hand, honed their leadership and communication skills by orchestrating the day’s events. The experience reinforced their commitment to social responsibility and provided them with an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to community development. These exchanges built a bridge of trust and mutual respect between the university and the visiting school.

The outcome of the visit proved successful in its results

• For the students: The experience broadened their horizons and motivated them to explore higher education. The visit demystified the concept of university life, inspiring many to set new academic goals.
• For the teachers: The accompanying educators were inspired by ASU’s approach to learning. They returned with ideas to implement practical teaching techniques in their schools.
• For the volunteers: The event enhanced their organizational and interpersonal skills, instilling a deeper sense of responsibility.
• For the university: The initiative strengthened ASU’s bond with its adopted village and showcased its commitment to inclusive education.

The visit ended with a vote of thanks from the school teachers to appreciate the wonderful experience that was bestowed upon them. The students did not only go back home with memories but also with a renewed sense of purpose and ambition. Many were excited about higher education and the various possibilities that it holds for them.

By hosting this event, Apeejay Stya University demonstrated how higher education institutions can play a pivotal role in community development. Initiatives like these bridge the gap between rural schools and universities, fostering a culture of mutual growth and understanding. The event underscored the importance of collaboration, highlighting that small efforts can create profound impacts on young minds.

Through its commitment towards holistic learning, social outreach, and educational collaboration, ASU is setting standards for moulding young minds into a better future for everyone.