Our association with a dynamic Pune-based NGO called URMEE, the branchild of Rahul and Reshma Shende, has proved to be a virtual joyride of new discoveries and sunrise possibilities.
This mock experience will undoubtedly go a long way in helping these students appreciate the democratic values of our nation; hopefully, they will become morally conscious voters upholding the developmental agenda, ahead of merely promising it.These little school champions are our future leaders at the village, state and national levels. We salute them, and their teachers, for this unique grassroots experiment.
During a survey of Zilla Parishad Schools located on the difficult terrains forming the outskirts of Pune, I came across a Smart School (which would make any 'Smart City' proud) making the most of whatever they have at their disposal in the name of resources (which are close to nothing when compared to municipal schools, leave alone schools in urban areas.)
But here, you don't find pompous principals, self-obsessed teachers and motormouth administrators, you only find committed activists in different forms - whether as teachers, students or parents. Meet the real champions of primary education, students and teachers of Jawalgaon Z P Primary School in Mulshi Taluka of Pune District.
But here, you don't find pompous principals, self-obsessed teachers and motormouth administrators, you only find committed activists in different forms - whether as teachers, students or parents. Meet the real champions of primary education, students and teachers of Jawalgaon Z P Primary School in Mulshi Taluka of Pune District.
The enterprising students of the school recently held mock EVM-based elections in their vicinity, exactly as these elections are known to be held, of course without the EVM technology but also without any of the controversies and disruptions that we witness in real life.
Three electoral officers were appointed for the purpose apart from a center head.
Without any campaigning, the school witnessed 100 per cent voting. At 9.30 am, the end of voting was announced by pressing the 'close' button. Kishor Beldar sir pressed the 'Results' button and presented a report of the election results (simulating the screen display) Meanwhile, voters and candidates relished their regular meal.
Post the lunch break, Jalindar Choudhary sir, officer in charge of the election process, declared the poll results which were celebrated with festive fervor. Sweets were distributed on the occasion, and the winners were duly congratulated and felicitated in highly democratic fashion.
