These little ones got a surprise gift
For disadvantaged students, access to learning throughout the pandemic has been a challenge. But a few smartphones gifted to these kids in village ensured that they continue studying
Like millions of children in India, Ajay Kashyap, 10 and Aakash Kashyap, 14 had to switch from classroom learning to lessons over the internet when schools shut in March owing to coronavirus outbreak.
Schools have made online classes available. But for disadvantaged students, access to learning throughout the pandemic has been a challenge.
11-year-old Ajay says, “ As soon as classes were shifted online, we were at a loss as we didn’t possess smartphones to attend these online classes.” Aakash adds, “We didn’t want to burden our father who works as a gardener.”
But a surprise gift changed their lives. Activist Anubhooti Bhatnagar gave five new and two functional second hand phones to them and other kids in Ghasola village, Gurgaon.
She says, “Online classes are a recurring challenge for these kids. The lack of ready access to a digital device means they can’t take classes and have to depend on someone else’s generosity as they borrow phones.”
No wonder, the brothers were ecstatic to receive these phones and rejoined classes. The Neo Fusion Foundation encourages people to donate all kinds of old and used but functional smart phones, laptops, tablets, desktop/computer.
The pandemic will present challenges to full school reopenings for at least a year, but these phones will ensure that kids do not lag behind. Ajay says, “I still miss school and being in the class but the phone makes a major difference – it is effective and gives me knowledge.” Aakash laughingly adds, “It doesn’t replace the school but it’s a major help.”
The pandemic has further exacerbated the learning gap and inequality is a major challenge but with initiatives such as these, it is sure going to make a difference and bridge the gap.