Deepalaya - Enabling Self-Reliance

Her Majesty Queen Beatrix of The Netherlands accompanied by Their Royal Highnesses the Prince of Orange and his spouse Princess Maxima of The Netherlands today visited Deepalaya School Kalkaji Extension, one of the schools run by the largest Delhi based operational NGO. Deepalaya. This was the only NGO the Queen visited during her stay in New Delhi Also accompanying her was a senior delegation from the Dutch Government and also the Indian. Ambassador to the Netherlands, Mrs. N.D.Sabharwal.

The Majesty and the Royal Highness were welcomed by Rtn.T.K.Mathew, Secretary & Chief Executive and the children of Deepalaya.

The children living in the slum made presentations with regard to the cleanliness, hygiene and healthy living practices taught at Deepalaya. They presented songs focussing on personal hygiene, cleanliness and sound health. The Royal entourage expressed great interest in the pictorial depiction on personal cleanliness learnt in school, how to prevent diseases and stay healthy. Her Majesty interestingly saw the live demonstration on how to brush the teeth, wash one’s hand etc given by the students of Deepalaya. The visitors were moved by the hygienic etiquettes and the application of henna and bridal makeup that children have studied during their education at Deepalaya School.

The year 2008 will be celebrated as the ‘International year of Sanitation’. This brings more relevance to the Queen’s visit to a School for children from the marginalized sections of society. Centred on the sanitation conditions, the Queen learnt about the methodologies used by Deepalaya to impart education to poor children about cleanliness and healthful living.

The children of Deepalaya School presented a play where they featured the transformation of their lives after receiving education from Deepalaya. The play showcased how Deepalaya’s intervention has brought about perceptible change in the living standard of the poor people from slums where there is dearth of civic amenities.

The royal excellence was indeed very delighted to see the joys and fresh energy in the children. The Queen congratulated the children and the staff for all their efforts.

The Royal visit will remain a moment in the lifetime of all at Deepalaya to cherish.