Vikalp reconnects with Community through Successful Outreach Program

In a spirited effort to reconnect with the local community, Vikalp, a student-led educational initiative established in 2009, launched its first outreach program of the new
session on August 11, 2024. The program, aimed at encouraging new enrollment and reaffirming Vikalp’s commitment to accessible and quality education, marks a significant milestone as the initiative resumes its operations after a refreshing summer break.

Starting at 2:00 PM from Gate No. 2 of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU), a team of 15 dedicated volunteers embarked on a mission to engage with residents of
Sirah Colony, Sool, and the surrounding areas. Through face-to-face interactions, they updated the community on Vikalp’s reopening, addressing concerns and emphasizing the initiative’s ongoing dedication to educational empowerment. By the time the program concluded at 4:00 PM, the volunteers had reached the maximum number of households, ensuring that Vikalp’s message resonated throughout the community.

Vikalp has long been committed to providing valuable learning experiences to students from nearby villages and the faculty area of SMVDU. This session, however, the initiative is placing special emphasis on the education of the children of construction workers currently employed at the university. Recognizing the unique challenges these students face, Vikalp has tailored daily classes, held from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM in D-block, to meet their specific needs, ensuring that each child receives the support required to excel academically and personally. The success of this outreach program reflects Vikalp’s broader mission to expand its reach and impact within the community. With robust support from the university’s administration and faculty, the initiative is poised to conduct additional outreach programs, workshops, and co-curricular activities throughout the session. These efforts aim to further enhance educational opportunities for all students involved, fostering an environment where learning is both accessible and meaningful. Prof. Pragati Kumar, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor of SMVDU and Shri Sumanta S. Sharma, Faculty Coordinator of Vikalp, have both applauded the students’ efforts and the initiative’s commitment to making this session a success.

Their recognition underscores the importance of Vikalp’s work and its vital role in the educational landscape of the region. As Vikalp continues its journey of educational empowerment, the initiative remains steadfast in its mission to enrich the lives of students and to make a lasting impact on the community it serves.