The Arundhati Foundation launched the first Safety Ambassador program with Shishu Mandir School on the 21st Of November 2018. The vision was to teach and train a few students the importance of safety on our roads, homes and society. These students in turn carry this message across to other students in their own school and schools in other parts of our city.
We must say, we are thrilled with our first batch of Safety Ambassadors. These 30 school children, from classes 6th to 9th, have carried out various programs in their own school, passing on the message of safety not only with fellow students, but also among the parents.
They have created awareness by making posters and enforcing the use of helmets among the parents and senior students. They were laughed at, but they stuck to their stance and ensured that the message was taken seriously.
The Safety Ambassadors have had workshops on safety which includes not only road safety, but also electrical and fire safety. One child said, “I only knew about using water or fire extinguisher to put out fires. Here I learnt about the different causes of fire, and how it is not right to use water in some cases. It can cause more damage – for example, in electrical fires”
As ambassadors, we are preparing them to spread the message of safety in their peer circles, and their friends/families. In preparation for this, they presented their own views on road safety. They advocated not to drive without a proper license. One said, “we can’t just blame government. We should take interest, and ask for better infrastructure in our neighbourhood”. Another said “First of all, only if I follow the rules can I tell others”.
They also expressed their creative skills and presented a skit on road safety.
Recently, along with @Walnut Knowledge Solutions, The Arundhati Foundation had organised Qshala program for these students. Besides learning social skills and communication skills , these children learnt about fire, electrical and road safety in a fun and engaging manner. These were presented to them through quiz questions and assignments. It was absolutely wonderful to see their enthusiasm in learning and actively participating in the Qshala workshop.
Thank you Anagha Shridhar and Walnut Knowledge Solutions for a precious partnership which , we, at the foundation have no doubt will be sustained for years to come.
Thank you Shishu Mandir, co- ordinators Ms Sandhya, Ms Preethi , MsKavitha and Safety Ambassadors! May you grow and help grow the concept and vision of Safety Ambassadors.
Ms Sandhya who was the Supervisor from Shishumandir said that she felt lucky that she was chosen to coordinate this program, for she herself has learnt a lot.
Sharing a few pictures of these sessions.
