Deepalaya - Enabling Self-Reliance

All of us were children at one point of time
but few of us remember that

This thought was profoundly proved wrong on March 24th , 2006 when a delegation from U.S. on behalf of Asia Society visited Deepalaya School,Sanjay Colony in South Delhi. The delegation consisted of distinguished U.S. state and national education leaders and included state commissioners of education, governors’ representatives, heads of major private foundations and leaders in science and vocational education.

Founded in 1956 by John D. Rockefeller 3rd , the Asia Society is currently celebrating its 50th Anniversary year with a series of notable events throughout India. These events started with the 16th Asian Corporate Conference held at Mumbai from March 18-20th , with the Prime Minister officially launching the new Asia Society India Centre in Mumbai.
The delegates arrived at the school in the morning of March 24, 2006 and were traditionally welcomed by the students. After this they interacted with the students of different classes. The students presented a small play emphasizing the importance of food value. It was highly appreciated by all. An exhibition showcasing charts and models made by students was also organized. One of the unique things that this school provides to its students is “Teaching through Theatre” where students are taught using pictures and then relating stories to them.
Afterwards, the students presented a cultural program which was magnificent to say the least. It consisted of group songs, traditional dances by the girls and a dance by the tiny tots of the school. The dance on the song “aayo re maro dholna” got a standing ovation from the entire delegation..

The entire delegation appreciated their visit to Deepalaya and said that it was “exciting”, “interesting”, “terrific” and “lovely”.
Dr. Michael Levine, ex-director of Asia Society who was a member of the delegation had the following comments to offer

Deepalaya has made education come alive in a magical and spiritual way. It is preparing its children for life.

This delegation had a two fold purpose for visiting India. Firstly, they wanted to learn about how the Indian education system operates from pre-school to the higher level. Secondly they were also checking the feasibility of starting a project with Deepalaya in the near future. From the positive and encouraging responses of this delegation towards Deepalaya, it appears that it will become a reality very soon.