How ApniPathshala is Transforming Rural Education in Haryana.
In the quiet village of Sirsa, Haryana, where traditional values often overshadow modern ambitions, the pandemic brought education to still. Students struggled under the weight of increased syllabus, lacked personal guidance, and faced a gap in digital learning. But just when things seemed hopeless, ApniPathshala’s learning pod at the Jivam Foundation stepped in. A light of hope that turned challenges into opportunities and gave students a chance to dream again. The Beginning: Rising from the Ashes The pandemic of 2020 was not just a health crisis, it was a crisis of education. With schools closed and resources scarce, the future of countless children was surrounded by uncertainty. Recognizing the urgency, Jivam Foundation, led by the visionary Ms. Isha Godara, made the bold decision to convert a lifeless ancient building to a digital learning spot. Ms. Godara’s story is as inspiring as the foundation itself. Having completed her education in Alberta, Canada, she could have chosen a life of comfort and opportunity abroad. But her heart was rooted in Haryana, where she saw the potential to make change. Her decision to return home and create the Jivam Foundation shows her commitment to transforming the community through education and empowerment. “The building was locked and forgotten” shared Mr. Vikas Sheron, the coordinator of the learning pod. “We faced accusations from the villagers who called us frauds and doubted our intentions. But we didn’t stop, driven by the belief that education is the most powerful weapon for change.” Every essential like lighting, furniture, and Wi-Fi was set up with great effort. Despite the challenges and resistance, the foundation moved forward. Because of the vision. The dream of creating a welcoming space where students could grow and succeed. The Transformation Mr. Vikas Sheron, who joined the foundation in 2021, never imagined himself as a teacher. “I didn’t like teaching at first,” he admitted. “It wasn’t something I saw myself doing. But life brought everything together, and now I love it. The bond I share with the students is beyond professional, it’s personal, like a family.” What began as a small effort soon grew into a lively hub of digital learning and empowerment. From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., students preparing for competitive exams come and sit in the learning pod & study together in a community. By late afternoon, the space transforms into a welcoming spot for younger children from grades 5 and 6, eager to learn after school. The journey wasn’t easy. One of the toughest challenges was changing societal mindsets. “In villages across Haryana, especially here, daughters weren’t allowed to study. Convincing parents to let their daughters join us wasn’t easy,” Mr. Sheron said. Yet, with time and persistence, the narrative changed. “Today, 70% of the students in our pod are girls, and they actively participate in programs and stage events,” he added with a sense of pride. A Partnership for Progress: Apni Pathshala’s Role The arrival of ApniPathshala brought a remarkable transformation to the learning pod. By donating us computer systems, it opened up a new world for students who had never even touched a computer before. “Thanks to ApniPathshala, our students have gone from having no digital learning exposure to mastering advanced skills,” shared Mr. Vikas. “It’s amazing to watch their confidence and abilities grow.” The impact is undeniable. Many students from the pod have successfully secured positions in various competitive fields, proving that their hard work and the support they received paid off. But the pod is more than just a place for academics. It’s a space where children develop life skills, resilience, and the courage to dream big. A Moment of Pride On the foundation’s first anniversary, the learning pod’s achievements were celebrated with a visit from Savita Poonia, the captain of the Indian Women’s Hockey Team. Her presence was more than just motivational, it was proof to what happens when passion meets perseverance. “She motivated us and appreciated our efforts,” Mr. Sheron recalled. “It was a moment of pride not just for the foundation but for the entire village.” Building Bonds, Changing Lives The foundation of the pod’s success is the special bond between the students and their teachers. “Learning is never one-way,” Mr. Sheron shared. “We learn something new from our students every day. Their feedback is incredibly valuable and pushes us to keep improving.” The pod is about so much more than academics. It’s a place where confidence is built, curiosity is nurtured, and opportunities are created for those who had none. Parents who were once unsure now stand as strong supporters of the initiative, attending PTMs and engaging actively with the teachers. A Legacy of Hope and Inspiration ApniPathshala’s learning pod at Jivam Foundation stands as proof of what’s possible when compassion meets commitment and when people dare to challenge societal norms for the greater good. This pod is not just reshaping rural education, it’s rewriting life stories, particularly for young girls in a community that once hesitated to support their dreams. Today, these same girls step onto stages with confidence, participate in programs, and walk on paths once considered impossible. This transformation reflects a powerful truth: when people come together with a shared purpose, obstacles disappear, and opportunities multiply. From an abandoned, crumbling building to a living hub of learning, the journey of this pod proves that even the smallest steps can create monumental change. It reminds us all that determination and collective effort can light the path to a brighter, more inclusive future. As the learning pod continues to grow, its story serves as an inspiration to dream big, work hard, and believe in the life-changing power of education. This isn’t just a story of success, it’s a call to action. Each one of us has the power to contribute to a world where every child gets the chance to learn, grow, and achieve their full potential. Be Part of the Change! ApniPathshala believes in creating more stories like this. Stories where education wins over adversity and dreams are given the