Rotary E Club empowers night school learners
The Rotary E-Club of Empowering Youth, RID 3132, undertook literacy initiatives in August, benefiting the 25 night schools in Ahmednagar. Night schools serve as a vital resource for young adults who, despite financial constraints, are determined to pursue education while working to support themselves. The students, aged around 25–28, manage a delicate balance between daytime labour and nighttime learning, says Bindu Shirsath, the project coordinator. These schools typically operate for two hours every evening, with each accommodating around 100 students.
To support these adult learners, the Rotary E-Club provided an SSC Study App, particularly aimed at Class 10 students preparing for their board exams. “The app can be installed on their mobile phones or laptops, making it a convenient study tool for the students who are often pressed for time,” says Bindu. The app includes practice tests and question paper sets, giving students critical resources to enhance their exam readiness. DG Suresh Saboo and DGE Sudheer Lature distributed study material and stationery kits sponsored by the club to the adult learners.
The club collaborated with RC Thane Ghodbunder, RID 3142, to organise online counselling sessions, addressing exam-related stress many of these students face. Experts from a cause-based club, Rotary Club of Addiction Prevention, RID 3141, highlighted the ill-effects of substance abuse and digital addiction, in an online programme that reached students of 15 night schools.
To further help the students, the club organised a skill development exhibition, where plumbers, carpenters, electricians and hospitality industry professionals shared information about their professions. “This provided students with real-world knowledge of potential career paths, fostering inspiration and practical advice. ” On Teachers’ Day, the club honoured a night school teacher with the Nation Builder Award. “This teacher has been pivotal in encouraging school dropouts to re-enrol and remain motivated to continue their education.”
The three-year-old e-club based in Ahmednagar has 12 members from across Maharashtra; two of them are based in the US and Canada. As the name suggests, the members engage in service activities aimed at empowering youngsters. “Early this year we provided ceiling fans to a school, and stationery kits and educational toys to students,” said club president Sweety Panjabi. The club has chartered a cause-based eco club that — executes projects related to environmental care in Ahmednagar, and an Interact Club for children with hearing and speech impairment.
