Author Archives: MediaTeam

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.

Convocation ceremony of Prerna Girls held

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Lucknow: Prerna Girls & Boys School and Center For Learning School (CFL), units of the Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF), organised their convocation ceremony to celebrate the successful results of their students. The chief guest for the occasion was Ruchita  Chaudhary, AGD, 1090 Police (W.C.S.O) and the guest of honour was Gary Everett, Principal of La Martiniere Boys College.

The event started with Ganesh Vandana. The principal of Prerna Girls School, Rakhee Panjwani, and principal Pratima Srivastava, principal of CFL, addressed the parents to thank them for their support and congratulated the students for their achievements. Dr Urvashi Sahni, founder and CEO of SHEF congratulated the graduating students, she said, “Every aspect of education at Prerna — the teachers, the curriculum, the culture of the school, is focused on helping the girls build a sense of themselves as equal persons worthy of being respected by themselves and their communities. We don’t just focus on academic excellence, but to empower them and to build a capacity to aspire, to take charge of their lives, and to flourish.”

108 students who excelled in the NIOS Board examinations were felicitated in the ceremony. The top three scorers in class 10th and 12th of Prerna Girls were awarded the Late Rajendra Mohini Satpal Malhotra Memorial Scholarship.

The guest of honour, Gary Everett, Principal of La Martiniere Boys College, said, “The transformation that is taking place in the lives of your children is evident. They come from a very challenging background, they know the suffering of our country. I urge all the students to dream. You will carry out the vision of your school and bridge the inequalities in this country.”

Sonal from Prerna Girls, shared her experience with the audience. “I feel proud to be a part of Prerna, we are taught that girls are equal and have every right to a life of their own choosing. This has helped me become a confident individual. This has helped me become. With my teacher’s support I was able to do well in my class 12th examination.” She also thanked her teachers and parents.

Neelu the class 10th topper at Prerna Girls said, “My school has given me dreams and opportunities to fulfil them. I am thrilled to join Study Hall. The teachers are very supportive. However I do miss my friends and teachers at Prerna but I can see them anytime because we are on the same campus.” Neelu’s outstanding performance has earned her a scholarship to Study Hall, one of Lucknow’s top CBSE schools, where she will continue her education and prepare for her NEET exams.

Shakti Mishra, a student of class 12th at CFL said, “CFL’s tailored approach to education allowed me to manage my time effectively, ensuring I could devote ample energy to both my studies and my athletic career. Balancing rigorous training sessions and competitive matches with academic responsibilities is no easy feat. And my teachers were at every step of the way supporting me.” Shakti is a tennis player who ranked at 57 in All India Ranking last year. She has won All India Tennis Association (AITA) and Universal tennis Ratings (UTR) tournaments as well as competed in International Tournaments.

The event carried enthralling musical and dance performances by the students. The ceremony was concluded with a gracious vote of thanks by the Prerna’s Vice Principal Roli Saxena and the National Anthem.

Lucknow LS polls 2024: Study Hall College students perform Nukkad Natak to raise awareness regarding voting

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Lucknow: Ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, students from Study Hall College in Lucknow took to the streets to raise awareness about voting through Nukkad Natak. Over 1,250 community members were engaged through the plays held at prominent locations including Transport Nagar, Traffic Park Krishna Nagar, Alambagh bus, Shalimar Gateway Mall stand metro station, Smriti Upawan Chauraha, and GyanSetu- Community transformation centers in villages.

Krirandeep Kaur, a B.COM student, emphasized, “We are the largest democracy in the world and we are about to have elections. We must understand the importance of our vote and practice being a democratic citizen of our country.”

Aryan, a B.C.A student, added, “Our vote is our voice. It’s crucial for everyone to participate and make informed choices. We want our communities to go and vote, because it’s important.”

Shivani, teacher at Gyan Setu Harduiya center,said, “Initiatives like this are essential to educate the community members to understand why they should vote. Through this play my community understood the power of their vote and the students encouraged them to participate in the democratic process.”

Directed by Mr. Nitish Bhardwaj, Theatre Faculty at Study Hall College, the Nukkad Natak aims to inspire local residents to vote responsibly. Established in 2016, Study Hall College (SHC) is a high quality undergraduate degree college, affiliated to the University of Lucknow and currently offers Bachelors of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication (BA – JMC), Bachelors in Business Administration (BBA), Bachelors in Commerce (BCom), and Bachelors in Computer Applications (BCA). 

GyanSetu (Bridges for Learning) is a network of micro-education social ventures run by Study Hall Educational Foundation. Children who are out of school go through an accelerated learning program at the GyanSetu center. Upon completing the program, they are enrolled in formal schools, and are offered continuous supplementary education and support at their local GyanSetu center to ensure that they stay in school.

India’s Daughters Campaign: Study Hall children break gender stereotypes, perform Nukkad Natak at Shalimar Gateway Mall

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Lucknow: Study Hall children presented a “Nukkad Natak,” themed around challenging gender roles and advocating for change at Shalimar Gateway Mall on Saturday, 28th April. This was carried out as a part of the India’s Daughters Campaign (IDC), an annual girls’ empowerment campaign by Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF) that aims to raise awareness around violence against women. The Nukkad natak shed light on sharing responsibilities at home, to create an equal and just world for everyone. Over 150 people were present and the event garnered over 100 signatures on a pledge to end violence against women.

The street play, a cornerstone of the IDC, aims to dismantle gender stereotypes and urge individuals to reconsider their mindsets regarding gender-based discrimination.

“Achieving equality requires the active participation of boys and men,” said Priyanka Saxena, Program Manager IDC at SHEF. “Through this year’s campaign, we aim to mobilize and educate boys and men to become advocates for gender justice.”

Uplabdhi, a student of class 10th at Study Hall said,  “We are raising awareness through drama that we need to challenge gender stereotypes and we need to create an equal and just society for everyone to thrive in.”

Bhartendu, teacher at Study Hall said, “Through India’s Daughters Campaign we are raising awareness regarding violence against women and the urgent need to take action against it. We must educate men and boys to build gender lens and sensitivity in order to bring change.”

Recognizing the need for a holistic approach to address gender inequality, the campaign emphasizes the importance of boys and men in the fight against violence against women. While efforts to empower girls and women are crucial, it is equally imperative for boys to challenge patriarchal norms and foster an egalitarian society. Since its inception in 2012, the India’s Daughters Campaign has witnessed remarkable growth, reaching over 1.1 million community members and 232,000 students in its latest edition in 2019. This year, the campaign takes a unique approach by placing boys and men at the forefront of discussions on gender inequality.

Study Hall Prep School celebrated its graduation day

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Study Hall Prep School celebrated its graduation day on Wednesday, March, 20th, 2024 for its passing out batch of Upper Prep. The Nursery and Lower Prep children bid farewell to their seniors by performing dance and reciting poems. The Upper Prep children also thanked their teachers, parents and the staff for helping them reach this day. The ceremony started by the address of Study Hall Principal followed by Head Study Hall Prep School who thanked the parents for being a rock solid support. She also the audience aware of what skills the children are ready with and how smoothly they can sail from kindergarten to Primary. The program concluded with the certificate distribution to the graduating batch. The ceremony was presided by Ms. Shibani Sahni and Mr. Anand Chitavanshi from Study Hall Educational Foundation.

48 women graduate from SHEF’s Nursery & Primary Teachers Training Program

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Lucknow: Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF) organised the  convocation ceremony for its Nursery and Primary Teachers Training (NPTT) program at Study Hall School Gomti Nagar. The guest of honor were Dr Archana Singh, Professor and Co-ordinator head, Deptt of Social Work, Dr Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University, Lucknow and Ms Shalini Mathur, Honorary Secretary of Suraksha which is the first Family Counselling Centre of India supported by the Centre Social welfare board. 48 students were awarded certificates upon the completion of the one-year course. The NPTT program graduates have been placed at esteemed institutions in Lucknow as well as across India – such as Modern Academy, Study Hall, Navyug Radiance, DOSTI (a school for children with special needs), Sanskriti School, Skylark, and Lucknow Public Collegiate.

Priya Kakkar, head of the NPTT program, expressed her pride in the accomplishments of the students and said, “Our students are mothers and women who have put a stop on their careers because of responsibilities. The NPTT program provides them with an opportunity to restart their careers again and become an independent and confident individual.”

Guest of honour, Shalini Mathur said, “Give your daughters wings, empower them with strength, and give them the entire sky to soar. Let them navigate their own destinies, pursue their passions, and carve their own paths.”

Highlighting the essence of the program, the ceremony featured a captivating cultural presentation, including poetry recitals and a dance play titled Doosre Paari.

“This programme has given me a purpose in life after a long gap of ten years“, said Arsh, a graduate from NPTT program at SHEF.

“I have learnt to adapt to new situations and respond to challenges along with honing my classroom teaching skills and thinking critically,“ said Durgesh, another graduate from the program.

The NPTT certification course started in the year 2015. Since then more than 200 students have been trained and placed in various reputed schools across India. The event was attended by the families of the graduates. The ceremony ended with a vote of thanks and national anthem.

A show and Tell activity

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A show and Tell activity was organised for children to show the mask, cutout, toy or puppet of an animal and speak few lines on it. This activity gave children confidence to speak in front of small audience their own peer group and Aunties.

Such activities help develop public speaking, creativity, language skill and develop confidence to speak on stage.