The artisans have always placed their children and their education above everything else—even their own needs. That seems to be a universal truth. Through the Armaan Club, artisans and their children receive support to navigate India’s complex education system, set meaningful academic goals, develop effective study habits, and also enjoy creative and recreational activities.
In Santa Cruz, Mumbai, home to four of the oldest cooperatives, there are many more children in need of educational support. While the artisans’ families are now somewhat better off thanks to cooperative participation, many children in the surrounding community still struggle. To reach them, the Education for Life center was established.
The center is open every day. Since schools in Mumbai run in shifts, children can drop in to use computers, read books, and get help with their studies. An intern is available four afternoons a week to assist with schoolwork. Saturdays are lively, featuring both a dance class and a math session using Vedic Math, a method that makes learning numbers intuitive and fun.
Activities become even more dynamic when neighborhood children join in. The participation strengthens the program and builds a sense of community. During holidays, the center buzzes with board games and puzzles, while summer vacation turns into a joyous collaboration as children and their mothers plan and carry out various activities together. Truly, there is strength in numbers.
SHARE WITH THE ARTISANS:
• What after-school activity did you enjoy the most growing up?
• If you could add one thing to every child’s learning environment, what would it be?
Start the Conversation!
