“Educating girls can help uplift communitie, states and nations” said Surabhi Kashyap, alumna of the English Access Micro Scholarship Program at Study Hall Educational Foundation.      

On 20 May 2023, Ms. Surabhi Kashyap an alumna of the English Access Microscholarship Program at Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF) organized a rally to advocate for girls’ right to education. More than 600 people participated in the rally including students from Prerna Girls School, Prerna Boys School, English Access Program and community members.

The aim of the rally was to increase parents’ awareness about girl child education and to instill gender justice. This march was carried out in two villages, Ujariyaon and Guwari. The rally is part of a larger project that aims to raise community awareness about the rights and education of the girl child.        

The rally was attended by Dr. Urvashi Sahni,  Founder-CEO, Study Hall Educational Foundation, COO Mr Anand chitravanshi, Rakhi Panjwani, Principal, Prerna Girls School, Roli Saxena, Vice Principal, Priyanka Saxena, Program Manager, Aarohini Initiative and her team members, Zareen Garcia, English Access ran away. Coordinator and Global Shapers, Vice Curator Sania Ashar 

The students performed a ‘Nukkad Natak’ regarding how not educating young girls can have adverse effects on their future. The students also interacted with the community members and asked them take a pledge against child marriage. 

Ms Surabhi Kashyap mentioned the importance of educating girls from an early age she said “Educating girls can help uplift communities, states and Nations” she also mentioned that a feminist approach in a child’s upbringing can help them become kinder and compassionate people.

Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF) organized the opening ceremony of the English Access Microscholarship Program (Access). Over 100 students have been enrolled in the program from four units of SHEF (Prerna Girls School, Prerna Boys School, Vidyasthali school and Study Hall College). Over 400 children have graduated from the program. Access is a 2-year intensive English language program funded by the U.S Department of State for youth around the world for 13 to 20 year-olds. This is the fifth cycle of the English Access Program at SHEF.

The program started with a speech by Access Program Coordinator, Zarine Garcia, This program goes beyond just teaching English. Access is a place where creativity is sparked for everyone involved. There is a clear transformation in our students. It has opened doors to scholarship opportunities.”

Dr Uravshi Sahni, founder and CEO of SHEF said, “Welcome to the new students. This is going to be a good experience for all of you. It aligns with our vision, to educate children, empower them and inculcate the values of equality, social justice and democratic citizenship.”

Students then shared their experiences with the program and presented cultural performances. 

Ruth Goode, Regional English Language Officer (RELO), “English Access Microscholarship is to empower students from non-English speaking countries by teaching them professional skills, social skills, and leadership. More than 400 students from SHEF have been a part of this program.”

Sonali, an alum of Access Program said, “I have enjoyed the two years of Access program. It has given me so many opportunities. I went to Italy last for an exchange program. It has built my confidence and enhanced my personality.” 

Surya Narayan, a student of Study Hall College, “This is a great opportunity for me as well as other students. I am very excited to start this program. I am hoping to develop my English speaking skills.”