Author Archives: MediaTeam

Helping KGBV girls learn with joy_ A joint effort by SHEF, HCL Foundation and Basic Education Dept

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Lucknow, July 2025 – In a strong step toward holistic and joyful learning, the Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF), with support from the HCL Foundation and Basic Education Department, launched a large-scale distribution drive across 8 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) in Lucknow.
The drive was formally inaugurated at KGBV Sarojini Nagar by Mr. Ram Pravesh, Basic Shiksha Adhikari (BSA), Lucknow, whose leadership and presence underscored the government’s commitment to strengthening girls’ education. Also present were KGBV warden Vandana Awasthi, representatives from the HCL Foundation, and the SHEF team.
As part of this initiative, nearly 800 girls received sports shoes and a wide range of games including volleyball, badminton, UNO, chess, and Monopoly — marking the launch of Sports Month across KGBVs. This effort aims to promote physical activity, boost confidence, and create more inclusive, energetic school environments through regular play.
To further support new admissions and address foundational learning gaps, specially curated Hindi and Mathematics workbooks were also distributed. These resources will help girls strengthen basic academic skills at their own pace, ensuring no child is left behind.
This collaborative effort by SHEF, HCL Foundation, and the Basic Education Department, Lucknow, with strong support from school leadership and teachers, aims to make KGBVs joyful, engaging, and empowering spaces for adolescent girls.

Yuva Manch 2025: SHEF students perform powerful plays on critical social issues

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Lucknow: Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF) on Friday hosted Yuva Manch, its biennial Hindi youth theatre festival, at Sangeet Natak Academy. Over 50 students from four SHEF institutions — Study Hall, Prerna Girls School, Vidyasthali Kanar Inter College, and Study Hall College — performed four Hindi plays that captivated the audience and inspired fresh thinking: Ek Kshhan Vida (Naresh Saxena), Rani Laxmi Bai (Dr. Vrindavan Lal Verma), Chote Muh Badi Baat (Jaivardhan), and Nadi Pyasi Thi (Dharmveer Bharti).

Launched in 2006, Yuva Manch is a platform dedicated to promoting theatre among young students. It has become an integral part of SHEF’s efforts to nurture creativity and expression through the performing arts while raising awareness and encouraging critical thinking on long-standing social issues.

Addressing the full house at Sangeet Natak Academy, SHEF’s Founder Dr Urvashi Sahni said, “At SHEF, drama is an integral part of our pedagogy because we believe children learn best when they are engaged emotionally, intellectually, and creatively. Through theatre, they don’t just learn to act—they learn to think, to feel, and to speak up. Yuva Manch is their space to tell the stories that matter to them. When children perform, they show us who they are and who they can become.”

Class 12 CBSE Results :Daughter of a single mother scores 95.2%

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Kashish Yadav, daughter of a single mother who works as a house help, has scored  
95.2% in her class 12 CBSE exams. She started her education with Study Hall Educational Foundation’s (SHEF) Prerna Girls School but because of her exceptional academic performance she was given a scholarship by SHEF to continue her education at Study Hall School. Earlier, she also studied in the USA for a year under the Kennedy-Lugar YES scholarship.

Kashish lost her father at the age of five. Her mother, Shashi is a single parent, raising three daughters and works at a women’s self help group, where she makes dry snacks and pickles.

“I dealt with society when they questioned me for not having a son and raising three daughters alone after losing my husband. I was able to send all my daughters to school because of Prerna School. I don’t need a son, I have my daughters”, says Shashi. In the past, 10 girls had been selected from Study Hall Educational Foundation for the YES programme to study in the US. The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) programme brings high school students from countries of strategic importance to the United States for an academic year

Celebrating champions of gender justice, a great example of SHEF’s work: Rural Development Minister

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Lucknow: Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF) in collaboration with the Department of Psychology and Institute of Women’s Studies organised the culmination ceremony of SHEF’s annual girls rights campaign – India’s Daughters Campaign 2024 – 25. State Minister of Rural Development Vijay Lakshmi Gautam, who was also the chief guest, said on the occasion, “SHEF has done commendable work in educating children for gender justice. Government school teachers and children have worked very hard and brought about positive change. Stopping over 400 child marriages and getting teachers and children to report over 1500 cases of gender injustice is no mean feat.”

The Aarohini program launched by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath promotes gender education and critical feminist pedagogy to empower students to challenge patriarchal norms in their communities. The initiative has reached over 2.85 lakh students and 35,000 teachers across seven states and 1,600 schools, transforming classrooms into platforms for gender advocacy and justice.

Honouring Champions of Gender Justice at the India’s Daughters Campaign 2025

The Closing and Felicitation Ceremony of India’s Daughters Campaign 2025 celebrated the courage and leadership of students and teachers who took bold steps to advance gender justice in their communities. The ceremony was held at the Malviya Hall of Lucknow University.

Several young changemakers were recognised for their real-life interventions. Raveena (13) from Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV), Palia stopped a child marriage with police support. Roshni (13) from KGBV Sadar, Basti, re-enrolled herself in school despite family resistance. Shivani (14) stood up to domestic violence to protect her mother. Boys like Devendra and Ritik Raj prevented the early marriage of sisters and brothers and took action against violence. Akhilesh encouraged regular school attendance among boys in his community. These students demonstrated that empowered youth can be powerful agents of change.

Teachers too were honoured for their frontline role in protecting children. Nisha Mishra of KGBV Suratganj and Ram Pal of UPS Bareti Jalalpur intervened in numerous cases of child marriage and abuse. Teachers like Pinku and Amita prevented violence and promoted girls’ education through consistent advocacy.

The ceremony also acknowledged dedicated educators from across the Aarohini network, whose work continues to drive systemic change. These awardees exemplify the power of feminist education in building a more just and equal society.

Also in attendance were the Pro Vice Chancellor of Lucknow University Prof Manuka Khanna, Ekta Singh –  Additional State Project Director, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Vishnu Kant Pandey, Additional Director, UP Secondary Education, Vivek Nautiyal, Additional Director, UP Secondary Education, Mukesh Singh, Varisht Vishesh, Balika Shiksha, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan.

On the Streets for Change: Prerna Students Engage Over 3,000 Community Members to Urge Action for Women’s Safety

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November 30, 2024: Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF) organized a powerful rally under its annual girls’ rights campaign – India’s Daughter Campaign to advocate for the safety of women and girls. The event was led by students of the Veerangana group, a student-led social action initiative at Prerna Girls School and Prerna Boys School. Over 700 students participated, reaching out to more than 3,000 community members across the villages of Digdiga, Gwari, and Ujariyaon in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow.

Speaking at the event, Rakhee Panjwani, Principal of Prerna Girls School, emphasized the importance of collective action. She said, “Ensuring the safety of women and girls is a societal responsibility. Change begins with each one of us. I urge men and boys to stand with us in the fight to end violence against women and create a safe world for everyone.”

The rally featured vibrant posters, impactful slogans such as “Educate Men to Ensure Women’s Safety,” and street plays aimed at raising awareness. Students engaged community members in signature campaigns, encouraging them to pledge their commitment to fostering safe, respectful spaces for women at home, in society, and at the workplace.

The event witnessed participation from heads of SHEF schools including Roli Saxena, Vice Principal of Prerna Girls School; Pratima Srivastava, Principal of Prerna Boys School; Monica Chandra; Shibani Sahni; and Priyanka Saxena, the lead for the India’s Daughter Campaign. Surabhi Kashyup representing the Global Shapers Lucknow Hub, also lent her support to the initiative.

The rally is part of SHEF’s ongoing efforts to promote gender equality and empower communities to take a stand against violence and discrimination.

Vidyasthali students emerge victorious at Annual Track and Field Event – PARAKRAM

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Lucknow: Vidyasthali organised its Annual Track & Field Day, Parakram 2024, on Tuesday, 12th November 2024. Mr Ahsan Khan, chairman of Nagar Panchayat, Malihabad presided as the honourable chief guest on the occasion.

The lighting of the torch kickstarted the proceedings, followed by a march-past by students of each house. Little ones joined the parade dressed as animals from the wild who wanted to be a part of this journey of grit and courage. 

Ashan Khan said, “I’m thrilled to see such remarkable sportsmanship on display. The children of Vidyasthali have truly made us proud. My heartfelt congratulations to the students, teachers, and parents. This achievement is inspiring, and I hope it sets an example for other schools to follow.”

Shipra Verma, Principal of Vidyasthali, said, “Parakram is a celebration of our children’s hard work and dedication. This sports day is their achievement, and they are at the heart of every moment presented here today.”

Events like Shakti Vandana, a call to the divine; Umbrella Drill, Yoga, Kalaripayattu (a martial art from Kerala), Balloon Drill, Bohemian Drill, and Mizo Dance marked the day. 

Children presented great athletic moves as the finalé ended with a song of salutation to the mothers by all students coming together. Principal Ms Shipra Verma proposed the vote of thanks. A teaser for next session’s Annual Day was also presented. 

Parents were delighted to give their views in a video interview to students. They also wrote their comments and wishes on the memory wall before they bid adieu to one of the most happening congregations in Malihabad.

Study Hall Hosts Career Fest 2024: Over 700 Students Gain Insight into Global Educational Opportunities

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Study Hall School recently hosted its Career Fest 2024, attracting over 700 students from 7 esteemed schools. Professional career counsellors from organisations like IDP, Pratham, Princeton Review, Plymouth Morjan, CCA, Prep Guru, UPES, IIAD, and CLAT Possible provided insights into the admissions process for various private and international universities.

The counsellors also guided students on fee waivers, scholarships, academic and extracurricular requirements, and how to craft a compelling letter of recommendation.

Priyanka Chopra, a counsellor from IDP, remarked, “Our goal is to help students confidently navigate their future. We’ve met many talented students here who aspire to study abroad, and our counsellors are ready to assist with visa support and guidance throughout the process.”

Anagha Ramady, a student of class 12th at Study Hall, shared, “The counsellors broadened my perspective and gave me clarity about my future aspirations.”

Another student of class 10th, Uplabdhi Sachan, added, “I gained a clear understanding of my future plans, and the counsellors resolved all my doubts.”

The event was a resounding success, with active participation from students, teachers, and parents alike.

Inter school drama competition: Study Hall bags first position

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Lucknow: A unique inter school drama competition was organised by Study Hall on Saturday at the Sant Gadge Ji Maharaj Auditorium in Gomti Nagar. The competition featured five prestigious schools of Lucknow – CMS Gomti Nagar, Seth MR Jaipuria, Loreto, Vidyasthali and Modern Academy, participated in the English drama competition. Three notable theatre personalities judged the performances; Ms Kanak Rekha Chauhan, Founder Director of the Lucknow and Kanpur Literature Festivals, Dr Meenakshi Pahwa, retired English Professor of Lucknow University and Mr Faisal Husain, Creative Director of theatre group, ACTORS. Theme for the competition was ‘Raising Collective Consciousness for Social Justice’ to highlight core principles of democracy and the role of individuals in promoting and protecting these values.

Dr Meenakshi Pahwa said, “It is  incredibly heartening to witness these young talents perform with such conviction on such critical issues in our society. Drama plays a crucial role in raising awareness and driving positive change.”

“Drama plays a key role, providing a platform for experiential learning and self-expression. It helps children understand critical social issues and rehearse resistance in a safe environment. At Study Hall we blend drama, reading, writing, and critical dialogues to empower children to see themselves as active knowledge producers, enhancing their sense of belonging in a challenging world,” says Dr Urvahsi Sahni, Founder and CEO Study Hall Educational Foundation.

“We are using drama to elevate collective consciousness about the need to challenge stereotypes and build an equitable society where everyone can flourish,” said Uplabhdi, a student of class 10th at Study Hall.

“We’re using drama to highlight the inequalities present in our society. I am determined to champion this cause and strive for social justice in the future,” said Khushi from Vidyasthali School who played the lead role Moyna in the play Why Why girl.

The judges lauded each presentation and the evening came to a conclusion with the award ceremony felicitating participants in the categories of Best Play, Best Direction, Best Actor (Male /Female) and Best Stage Setting. Study Hall were the winners of the drama competition, the second position was bagged by Vidyasthali and Modern Academy got the third position. This event provided a platform for all young students from various schools to showcase their talents. 

Study Hall girl scores perfect 800 out of 800 in CUET exams

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Zoha Azeem, a recent graduate of Study Hall, has achieved the extraordinary feat of scoring a perfect 800 out of 800 in the Central University Entrance Test (CUET) exams. This result sits within the broader framework of the school’s commitment to nurturing top-tier academic talent, especially for girls, with 3 more students, Urja, Ridhi and Harshita, scoring 794, 788 and 786 respectively.
Meenakshi Bahadur, principal of Study Hall said, “Ours students have once again made us all proud. They have proved that if you put your heart and mind to it, your efforts will surely bear fruit. Many congratulations to all the students who have cleared CUET 2024.”
“It took me some time to register the result,” she recounted. “My parents and sisters had gotten me a mini cake and flowers along with the advice of remaining humble no matter what.” Zoha’s parents, Sameena Akhtar Siddiqui and Azeem Khan, also expressed their immense pride and joy. “I am absolutely overjoyed”, they remarked, that “her hard work has brought her fruit”.
Sharing her insights into her meticulous organisation and preparation strategies, Zoha claimed that she “tried to identify that pattern in every subject I studied” and relating these with “real life experiences…helped me the most.” Zoha attributes much of her success to the environment and teaching style, unique to Study Hall, emphasising the techniques she employed in her preparation. Additionally, “It emphasized as much on co curriculars as it did on bookish knowledge”, which helped her employ “critical thinking skills while studying instead of just blind memorization”.
Zoha now aspires to study History at College. It’s been her favourite subject since the 7th Grade and she would love to pursue an academic career in history itself, but ultimately, it is storytelling which really inspires her. “Whatever I do in life”, she remarked, “I would want it to be a medium for storytelling.”
Zoha Azeem’s journey exemplifies how a combination of hard work, innovative study techniques, and the nurturing environment at Study Hall has led to exceptional academic success.

Study Hall Hosts ‘Art With Heart’ Exhibition at Lalit Kala Academy

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Lucknow, July 26, 2024 – Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF) organized the ‘Art With Heart’ exhibition at Lalit Kala Academy, Aliganj, showcasing the remarkable artistic talents of students from all its units. The exhibition was inaugurated on July 26 by the esteemed Padmashri Dr Vidya Vindu Singh. The event commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, accompanied by a harmonious performance on the harmonium and vocals by Dr. Biju Bhagwati.

The ‘Art With Heart’ exhibition features an impressive array of artwork, including paintings, murals, lino art, and illustrations. Padmashri Dr Vidya Vindu Singh, while appreciating the artwork, remarked, “Art is a powerful tool for emotional well-being, offering a healthy outlet for emotions and alleviating stress. I am truly impressed by the beautiful artworks created by the students of SHEF. Their immense talent promises a bright future ahead.”

Dr Urvashi Sahni, Founder and CEO of SHEF said, “Study Hall integrates arts into school curriculums. It enhances the learning process by fostering creativity, critical thinking, and emotional well-being among students. Artistic activities such as painting encourage students to express themselves uniquely, develop problem-solving skills, and build cultural awareness.”

The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of Meenakshi Bahadur, Principal of Study Hall, Meenakshi Shah, Vice Principal, Rakhee Panjwani principal of Prerna Girls School, Pratima Srivastava principal of Center For Learning, Anand Chitravanshi – Chief Operating Officer at SHEF and Heads of various SHEF units. A captivating dance performance by Study Hall students added an extra touch of charm to the evening. SHEF integrates various art forms into its curriculum, recognizing the value of art in enriching the learning process. Through cultural appreciation, fostering empathy, promoting mental well-being, and holistic development, SHEF ensures a comprehensive educational experience for its students. 

The exhibition is open to the public from Saturday, July 27, to Thursday, August 1, from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm daily at Lalit Kala Academy, Aliganj.