SHEF, HCL Foundation organise issue-based concerts in 8 KGBVs of Lucknow

Posted on by

SHEF, HCL Foundation organise issue-based concerts in 8 KGBVs of Lucknow

Lucknow, February 26, 2026: For the first time, annual concerts were organized across eight Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) in Lucknow by Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF) in collaboration with HCL Foundation and with support from the Basic Shiksha Vibhag, Lucknow. The final concert was held on February 25, marking the completion of this landmark initiative. 560 parents attended the concerts across all eight schools.

The initiative began with KGBV Chinhat and was later extended to other KGBVs following district approval. Each school chose themes focused on gender equality and girls’ education. Through dance and issue-based dramas, girls conveyed powerful messages to parents and the wider community.

The events were attended by Dr. Urvashi Sahni, Founder and CEO of SHEF; representatives from HCL Foundation; DC–Balika Shiksha; Block-level officers; Tehsildars; officials from the Basic Shiksha Vibhag; Academic Resource Persons (ARPs); and members of the Mission Shakti team and local police.

Basic Shiksha Adhikari Vipin Kumar said, “The true purpose of education is realized only when schools, parents, and the community come together. Such efforts lay the foundation for children’s holistic development and a stronger future.”

DC–Balika Savita added, “Such programs bring schools to life. They strengthen parents’ engagement and create a supportive environment that advances gender equality and the holistic development of girls.”

Saron (Class 7, BKT) shared that through the annual function she understood the deeper meaning of freedom and gender equality. Earlier, she believed freedom referred only to national independence, but she now realizes it also means equal rights, opportunities, and confidence for girls. “I realized that I can do anything,” she said.

Teachers described the concerts as innovative and impactful, noting that they significantly boosted girls’ confidence and encouraged stronger parental support for continued education.

शेफ और एच.सी.एल फाउंडेशन ने लखनऊ के आठ कस्तूरबा गांधी बालिका विद्यालयों में किए लैंगिक समानता पर आधारित वार्षिक कार्यक्रम आयोजित किए

https://aapkikhabar.com/news/study-hall-educational-foundation-and-hcl-foundation/cid18295185.htm

SPARDHA 2026 – Annual Inter-Year Sports Fest

Posted on by

SPARDHA 2026, the Annual Inter-Year Sports Fest of Study Hall College, was conducted over three days with enthusiastic participation from students across all years. The event aimed to promote physical fitness, leadership, discipline, and teamwork among students while fostering a healthy spirit of competition.

Boys’ and Girls’ teams from the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd years competed in Volleyball, Kabaddi, and Tug of War. Each match reflected strong sportsmanship, strategic thinking, and collaborative effort. The competitions were marked by high energy, resilience, and mutual respect among participants.

The event successfully provided a platform for students to demonstrate their athletic abilities while strengthening inter-year bonding and institutional pride. SPARDHA 2026 not only encouraged competitive excellence but also reinforced the core values of teamwork, confidence, and holistic development upheld by Study Hall College.

The interactive workshop introduced students to the fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence.

Posted on by

Study Hall College had the privilege of hosting Mr. Prashant Singh, a seasoned data science expert with over 12 years of industry experience, for an engaging session titled “Demystifying Chatbots: A Practical Peek into AI.”

The interactive workshop introduced students to the fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence, the working of chatbots, and their transformative applications across sectors such as healthcare, e-commerce, and beyond. Through practical insights and real-world examples, students gained a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future.

‘Reaching for the Sky’: A Celebration of Confidence and Equality through Sports at Prerna Schools

Posted on by

Lucknow, Saturday, 24 January 2026: Prerna Girls School and Prerna Boys School, units of the Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF), organized their Annual Junior Sports Day – Reaching For the Sky with great enthusiasm, energy, and true sportsmanship. The objective of the sports festival was to promote physical development, discipline, team spirit, and self-confidence among children. Notable among the guests were Kumari Priya (renowned mountaineer and cyclist from Lucknow; also Rani Lakshmibai Awardee), Uma Sharma (Sub-Inspector, 1090), a three-time boxing medalist and recipient of the Rani Lakshmibai Award and Seema Sharma (Sub-Inspector, Intelligence Department. 

The programme began with a welcome address, followed by an inspiring speech by the school Principal, Rakhi Panjwani, who motivated the students with her encouraging words. She said, “Reaching for the Sky is not just the theme of our Sports Day; it is the spirit of our school, inspired by Dr Urvashi Sahni’s book that captures the courage, struggles, and quiet strength of our girls.”

Kumari Priya, chief guest said,“I urge all parents to treat their daughters and sons equally and give them the same opportunities, encouragement, and support. When we believe in our children without discrimination, they gain the confidence to dream big and move forward in life. This change has to begin at home, in the way we think and act every day, because meaningful change in society always starts with oneself.”

Dr Urvashi Sahni, CEO, Study Hall Educational Foundation, said, “Girls and boys must be seen and raised as equals. Education should prepare them not for dominance or submission, but for partnership. Girls need to grow up knowing they are equal human beings with the right to dream, decide, and lead. Boys need to learn sensitivity, justice, and the truth that patriarchy harms them too—it limits their humanity and wounds the women they love, their mothers and sisters. When girls and boys learn together in equality and respect, they can build an egalitarian society where everyone has the freedom to thrive.”

Uma Sharma, guest of honour said, “Growing up as a girl comes with many challenges and risks, but when girls are supported, encouraged, and believed in, they can overcome every obstacle. With the right guidance and opportunities, girls can rise with confidence and reach heights they once thought were impossible.”

Students of Classes 4 and 5 presented the Prerna Constitution, after which children enthusiastically participated in various fun and engaging athletic events and sports activities, including the Balancing Cone Race, Three-Legged Race, Bunny Jump, Saathi Haath Badhana Race, Ring Race, and Balancing Ball. The Girls’ Drill performed by students of Classes 1, 2, and 3 and the Boys’ Drill were major highlights of the event and captivated the audience. Special attractions such as the Saree Drill and the Mothers’ Race saw enthusiastic participation from parents. The programme concluded with a Grand Finale and a vote of thanks.

https://aapkikhabar.com/news/reaching-for-the-sky-a-celebration-of-confidence-and/cid18162240.htm

https://aapkikhabar.com/news/%E2%80%98reaching-for-the-sky%E2%80%99-a-celebration-of-confidence-and/cid18162242.htm

SHEF and HCL Foundation launch Girls’ Winter Camp to empower girls from eight KGBVs in Lucknow

Posted on by

Lucknow: A three-day Girls Winter Camp, organised by the Study Hall Educational Foundation in collaboration with the HCL Foundation, concluded today. The camp was conducted in two phases for students from eight Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) in Lucknow. The initiative aimed to build girls’ self-confidence, strengthen their critical thinking skills, and deepen their understanding of rights, equality, and independent decision-making. The programme was attended by BSA Vipin Kumar and Block Education Officer (BKT), Ms. Preeti Shukla. The certificate distribution ceremony was conducted by BSA Vipin Kumar and Ms. Anjali, Lucknow Head of the HCL Uday programme, which further boosted the enthusiasm and confidence of the girls. In the first batch, 40 students from KGBVs in Chinhat, Sarojini Nagar, Mohanlalganj, and Gosainganj participated in the camp. The second batch will include 40 students from KGBVs in Malihabad, Mall, Kakori, and BKT. During the programme, Study Hall Educational Foundation Founder Dr. Urvashi Sahni and representatives from HCL Technologies also encouraged the students, strengthening their morale and self-confidence.

BSA Vipin Kumar said, “Becoming a good human being and maintaining a positive mindset are essential for a better life. The Department, SHEF, and HCL are working together to create an environment where every student matters. Education is the path through which these opportunities reach you, and I urge all students to value and continue their education.” Block Education Officer (Basic), Ms. Preeti, interacted with the children during the visit and reviewed the activities of the camp.

Sharing her experience, Aditi, a Class 8 student from Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya, Sarojini Nagar, said, “These three days have been the best days of my life. I learned to trust myself, express my thoughts without fear, and understand the difference between right and wrong. I also learned about my rights and equality. Now I feel confident that I can make my own decisions and work towards my dreams.”

Shikha Singh, Shikha Singh, Program Manager – Education Initiatives, Study Hall Educational Foundation, Lucknow, said, “The children are extremely talented. What they need is an environment that helps them recognize and refine their abilities and strengths, so that they can learn to make their own decisions and gain better control over their lives. During this camp, I also observed children who were initially hesitant to speak openly, gradually expressing their thoughts with confidence.”

The camp is designed to go beyond academic learning, focusing on life skills that enable girls to question inequality, make informed decisions, and navigate the world with self-belief. Through interactive sessions, discussions, games, and creative activities, students are encouraged to reflect on gender roles, understand their responsibilities and rights, and build the courage to speak up for themselves. Key sessions addressed critical and timely issues such as child marriage, the POCSO Act, gender equality, and safety—equipping girls with knowledge that directly impacts their lives. Each day of the camp began with collective activities and dialogue, creating a safe space where girls could learn from one another and articulate their aspirations.

This Girls’ Winter Camp reflects SHEF’s broader vision of empowering girls from marginalized communities through education that is not only inclusive but transformative—helping girls move forward with confidence, awareness, and the ability to shape their own futures.

Empowering students through the art of listening

Posted on by

Study Hall College organized a session on Listening Skills led by Ms Nidhika Jindal, an experienced HR and Learning & Development professional with over 18 years of industry experience. The session highlighted the importance of active listening as a cornerstone of effective communication, emphasizing its role in building trust, encouraging collaboration, and strengthening interpersonal connections.

Inter-departmental computer quiz on National Computer Literacy Day

Posted on by

Tech Sphere, Study Hall College’s AI & IT club, organized an inter-departmental computer quiz to mark National Computer Literacy Day. Students from all departments put their digital skills to the test and powered up their tech knowledge through a fun and challenging competition. The initiative promoted digital literacy, encouraged cross-disciplinary interaction, and celebrated tech-savvy talent across the campus.

From market surveys to media reporting: A practical learning experience at handicrafts fair

Posted on by

Study Hall College organized an inter-departmental field visit to the Hindustan Hastshilp Mahotsav, bringing together students from BBA, BCom, and BAJMC programs for some experiential learning. During the visit, students conducted live surveys on GI-tagged products, interacted directly with buyers and sellers, and gained insights into market trends and consumer behaviour. Additionally, BAJMC students honed their on-ground media reporting skills through practical exposure. The visit provided another opportunity for hands-on learning, reinforcing the importance of real-world engagement beyond the classroom.

Prerna school celebrates convocation, highlighting education, equality, and life outcomes

Posted on by

Lucknow: Prerna Girls and Prerna Boys School, units of the Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF), held their Convocation Ceremony for students of Classes X and XII. The Chief Guest for the ceremony was Sri Asim Arun, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Social Welfare and SC/ST Welfare, Government of Uttar Pradesh. The Guests of Honour were Arlene Storm, Chancellor of Mount Royal University, Calgary, Canada, and Colin Jackson, Senior Scholar at the University of Calgary Graduate College and Co-Chair of the Civic Narrative Project Calgary on Purpose. A total of 124 students were felicitated at the ceremony.

Prerna Schools are built on a gender-transformative model that goes beyond academics. Girls learn to analyse the world around them, question inequality, and make their own decisions. Boys are taught to examine masculinity, reject harmful norms, and practice respect and empathy. The aim is not only to improve learning outcomes, but also life outcomes—helping first-generation learners build agency, understand their rights, and move through the world with confidence and awareness.

Addressing the graduates, Sri Asim Arun said, “Education is the most reliable path for any child to build a secure and dignified life. When girls and boys develop confidence, skills, and clear thinking, it strengthens not just their own future but the future of the country. What Prerna is doing shows how education can shape responsible citizens and contribute to real social and economic progress.”

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Urvashi Sahni, CEO of SHEF said, “Our children achieve so much in school despite the challenges they face every day. Their hard work has led to strong academic progress, but the most powerful change is in their lives. At Prerna, we have brought child marriage down to zero and seen girls take control of their decisions and futures. These students show us that when you combine education with dignity and equality, you don’t just improve learning outcomes — you create positive life outcomes.”

The convocation honoured the achievements of students who completed Class X and XII, many of whom are the first in their families to reach this milestone. Alumni also shared how the school’s focus on agency, critical thinking, and equality shaped their choices beyond school.

The ceremony closed with a shared commitment to continue advancing education that builds confident, responsible, and gender-just citizens.