Programme strengthening is a continuous process and it is indeed gratifying to see programmes at Smile Foundation evolving into structured and systematic interventions. This period saw fructification of several of our plans that had been in the pipeline for over a year.

Under our flagship programme, Mission Education, Smile Foundation has successfully set up 102 libraries. We are hopeful that this intervention will bring the world of books closer to the children. The books were carefully handpicked keeping in mind the diverse age-groups and interests of children and includes books on moral stories, fiction, science, etc.

The period also saw setting up of 54 computer laboratories. The computer support initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and promote computer enabled learning in Mission Education centres. The computer classes have become one of the many reasons for children to look forward to coming to the centre. For most of them, this is their first encounter with computers and their excitement is unmistakable.

Teachers are at the epicenter of any education programme and determine the quality of education being provided to the children. Teacher training programme was organized for 89 grassroot partner organizations with the objective of enhancing their pedagogical understanding. Broadly, the training programme focused on role of a teacher, teaching learning skills, assessment and evaluation of children, library management and using computers efficiently.

The training has been successful in enhancing the motivation level of the teachers as well as improving their skill sets.

In wake of the ill-fated Himalayan Tsunami in Uttarakhand last year, the programme team had set to task to provide immediate relief, which was followed by in-depth surveys on the ground and rigorous planning, to come up with a full-fledged project dedicated solely to the victims of the disaster. This project, designed from a rehabilitation perspective, has now been initiated and aims at addressing the health needs of the underprivileged in flood affected areas of Block Ukhimath of District Rudraprayag. Given the ground level requirements, the initiative has been designed with a static health unit in addition to a mobile health clinic, covering 24 villages.

The reporting period also saw launch of two Smile on Wheels mobile hospitals with focus on maternal and child health related issues.

Under the Smile Twin e-Learning Programme (STeP), one-third of the centres have been provided with new computer laboratories to keep the students at par with the market requirements. Also, a new curriculum has been designed for English with focus on enhancing the verbal and communication skills of the youth. On similar lines, the curriculum for computer has been upgraded so that the youth are oriented about the latest advancements in IT.

The main achievement of the period has been not only expansion of projects to benefit more people, but also quality enhancement of each programme, to maximize the impact.

Real Work brings Real Change.

We know there is a long way to go, but the change gradually unfolding around us, keeps us motivated. We have picked up some of these inspiring stories for you. Come join us on our journey of change as there are (s)miles to go………