Tag Archives: Press

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

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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

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

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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

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

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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.

Study Hall Educational Foundation Launches India’s First Contextualized Comprehensive Sexuality Education Curriculum in Lucknow

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Lucknow, October 27, 2025 — In line with the new National Education Policy 2020, the Study Hall Educational Foundation (SHEF) today launched its landmark “Sex, Relationships, and Society: Comprehensive Sexuality Education Curriculum”. The event marked a significant step toward transforming how Indian schools approach comprehensive sexuality education — from silence and stigma to dialogue and empowerment.

Dr Urvashi Sahni Founder & CEO, Study Hall Educational Foundation said, “Our Comprehensive Sexuality Education curriculum is not about a few lessons on biology — it is about helping children understand who they are, what they value, and how they relate to others and the world. It equips them to think critically, challenge harmful norms, and build relationships rooted in care, respect, and equality. True education must prepare every young person to live with dignity and empathy — that is why this curriculum is so essential.”

The event drew participation from leading educators and institutions across the city, including Study Hall School, La Martinière, Seth M.R. Jaipuria School, CMS, APS Academy, GD Goenka, Kunskapasskolan, Study Hall Deva Road, Adani Gems and several others came together for this launch. Their presence reflected a growing recognition that comprehensive, age-appropriate sexuality education is essential for the holistic development of young people in today’s world.

Shreevats Shukla a, student of class 12 at Study Hall School said, “We can’t stay silent about things that shape our lives every day. Talking about taboo topics like gender, relationships, and consent helps us unlearn the wrong ideas we’ve absorbed and relearn what it really means to be respectful and kind. Men and fathers have to be part of this conversation too — because change begins when all of us question and redefine masculinity together.”

Developed under the leadership of Zarine Garcia, the new curriculum is the result of extensive research, student consultations, and pilot testing across SHEF’s network of schools, including Prerna Girls, Prerna Boys, and Study Hall. It takes a whole-person approach, addressing themes such as self-awareness, relationships, consent, gender, sexual and reproductive health, digital safety, and inclusion.

Speaking on the occasion a parent said, “When adults don’t talk to young people about these issues, the internet becomes their teacher. Our responsibility is to ensure that what they learn is factual, respectful, and empowering.”

The Sex, Relationships, and Society curriculum adopts a whole-person, rights-based approach that integrates knowledge, values, and critical thinking to help students navigate issues of identity, relationships, gender, and health. Organized into seven modules, it covers themes such as self-awareness, healthy relationships, consent, gender and culture, puberty and reproduction, sexual and reproductive health, inclusion of LGBTQ+ identities, and positive attitudes toward desire and pleasure.

Vanshika Mishra a student, Seth M.R. Jaipuria School said “Young people, especially girls, deserve accurate information — not shame or silence. When we understand our bodies, our rights, and our choices, we can stand up to discrimination and make decisions for ourselves. Comprehensive sexuality education isn’t just about health; it’s about equality, confidence, and freedom.”

Together, these modules provide adolescents with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their bodies, relationships, and well-being, while promoting empathy, equality, and respect. Each curriculum set is accompanied by teacher training and mentoring support, including a full-day workshop, follow-up sessions, and a year-long guidance program to ensure safe and effective classroom delivery.

Each curriculum set is paired with teacher training and mentoring, including a full-day workshop, follow-up sessions, and a year of support to help schools implement it effectively.

Other news links

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/study-hall-launches-comprehensive-sexuality-curriculum/articleshow/124857668.cms

https://upplus.in/Study-Hall-Educational-Foundation-I

https://aapkikhabar.com/news/study-hall-educational-foundation-launches-indias-first/cid17692009.htm

https://aapkikhabar.com/news/study-hall-educational-foundation-unveils-india%E2%80%99s-first/cid17693418.htm

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.