Makkala Jagriti
Celebrating children & Empowering youth
Makkala Jagriti started its journey in 2003 with the vision of empowering children from marginalized communities to break barriers and overcome obstacles imposed by their circumstances that prevented them from accessing quality education. What began as a safe, non-threatening learning center in one of Bangalore’s urban poor communities is now a movement that is empowering thousands of disadvantaged children and youth through its unique holistic development model towards maximizing their learning and potential to succeed; and breaking the chain of poverty, illiteracy and unemployment.
In a journey that spans over 20 years, Makkala Jagriti has impacted over 80,000 children and youth and unleashed the superheroes within them. Watch how they continue to be empowered to script their own bright futures.
Our Focus Areas
Helping young lives thrive as one of the best NGOs in Bangalore for education and youth empowerment.
Early Childhood Care
and Education
Programme to enhance preschool learning,
implemented at Anganwadi centres.
Holistic Development
Learning Centres
Complementing formal education using our
unique ‘S.P.I.C.E.’ Model, implemented at
Government Schools, Children Homes, and
Communities.
Yuva Jagriti
A platform to enhance life skills and
facilitate access to opportunities for youth,
implemented at our Yuva Cafes and
government institutions.
Holistic Development of Children in Child Care Institutions
and Education
Transforming Child Care Institutions into spaces of holistic learning and development
Holistic Development
Learning Centres
Equipping children and youth in urban-poor communities towards a better future through a holistic approach.
Our Impact
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Enabled and empowered 80k+ children & youth to unleash their potential and grow
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Urban poor communities impacted
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Institutions (Anganwadis, Government schools & Child Care Institutions) transformed into effective spaces for holistic development and learning
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teachers trained
Stories of Change
Stories
March 26, 2024Prabhu was a teenager when the old, dilapidated building in which his family lived collapsed, leaving them without a home. While they were still grappling with the situation, Prabhu lost his father, the sole earning member of the family. Unable to process his difficult circumstances, he found strength in hanging around with his friends, who often indulged in gang wars and all forms of abusive behaviour.
Prabhu was a shy yet playful boy when he joined the Yuva Jagriti centre at the age of 15. He expressed, “I feel I am at crossroads, not sure which road to take”. Following our support and guidance, he decided to pursue an internship at Makkala Jagriti. He was entrusted to work with children from Shelter Homes. Today, Prabhu is a sought-after Creative Facilitator and Coordinator at Makkala Jagriti, managing three Community Centres. A silent yet sound performer, he brings in diverse and highly creative ways to engage children and help them learn and grow. [...]
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March 26, 2024Murali lived in Bengaluru with his brother, while his parents lived in a village in Tamil Nadu. After his 10th grade, he lost the interest and inclination to study further. When he joined Yuva Jagriti, he started learning Taekwondo at our centre, which helped him become calmer and more focused. He also showed immense capacity to work with children, especially in the areas of sports and creativity, and this landed him an opportunity to work with Makkala Jagriti. Alongside his work, he pursued Taekwondo and competed at the District, State and National levels. He won a number of Gold Medals.
Today, Murali is an accomplished Taekwondo instructor, teaching at many schools in Bengaluru. He brought great accolades to the Nation when he won two bronze medals at the World Taekwondo Championship in Korea in September 2017. [...]
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March 26, 2024Both of Mercy’s parents worked in the unorganised sector, who could not afford her school fees. She joined Makkala Jagriti Learning Centre at the age of 11, and always found the facilitators to be warm, welcoming and encouraging. Makkala Jagriti also supported her to pursue her education.
“We had a lot of freedom to explore our interests and talents. They taught us life skills and values. It was a new world for me.”
– Mercy
Through the Yuva Jagriti career guidance programme, Mercy received the right kind of insight and encouragement that led her to pursue a degree in Commerce, that too through a merit seat. Being the first girl in her family to study that far, she set an example in her community and made choices that allowed her to move beyond the circumstances that she was born into. Mercy now works in a reputed bank and is among our celebrated many who not only made a difference in their own lives but continue to do so in that of others. [...]
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March 26, 2024Manoj, a 12-year-old boy, hails from a family of garment workers who had migrated from Andhra Pradesh. On moving to Bengaluru in 2018, he joined the Government Primary School in Ulsoor. The drastic change in his environment and culture left him feeling withdrawn and fearful. He refused to speak or participate in any school activity. Over time, he confided in our HDLC facilitator about feeling neglected by his parents in such difficult circumstances.
Manoj’s mother was invited to participate in Makkala Jagriti’s parents’ workshop. The two-day residential workshop allowed her to reflect on her own mindset, biases and relationship with her son. At the end of it, she made a conscious decision to work on rebuilding and restoring her relationship with Manoj. At school, our facilitator noticed that this had a direct impact on his performance. He became more participative and improved in his academics. Manoj later shared with the facilitator that his relationship had become more harmonious and positive with his mother. [...]
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March 26, 2024Barnalli, a seventh grade student at Government Primary School, Somasundrapalya, is a child of migrant parents from Assam. Unable to speak the local language, Kannada, she found it difficult to adjust to school and struggled to mingle with other children.
“When you are new to a place and don’t know anyone, it is hard to fit in. She didn’t have any friends in school.”
– Barnalli’s mother
Makkala Jagriti’s language development program came to her rescue.
“Although I was in a higher grade, the HDLC facilitator taught me Kannada right from the basics. The different activities and sessions helped me grasp the language easily and quickly. Over time, Kannada moved from being just a new language to my favorite subject. Learning Kannada helped me enjoy school a lot more. I became a class leader and also started representing the school in inter-school competitions!”
– Barnalli [...]
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March 26, 2024To ensure children get quality pre-school learning opportunities in the Anganwadi, we empower the teachers and helpers through enhancing their knowledge, skills and attitude towards early learning and development.
“Through Anganwadi trainings, I have changed in a positive way and gained confidence about myself – especially in terms of catering to all domains of early learning. I have even started making learning materials by myself to teach children”.
– Nirmala, Anganwadi teacher, Rojipura
We train teachers and helpers on experiential learning methods that can be practiced at their centres. We also organise Mothers’ Meetings and regular mentoring visits to provide on-the-job support and guidance to teachers. Anganwadi helpers are empowered to become co-teachers and have an important role in the children’s learning process, thereby not confining them to just cooking and cleaning.
“I was used to just cooking and cleaning in the Anganwadi and did not do much else. However, after I attended the ECCE trainings, I realized I had a lot of potential and could engage and teach the children just like a teacher. Now, when the teacher is absent, I engage children in preschool learning activities.”
– Rukmini, Helper, Jyothinagar Anganwadi
From giving little time to learning, to prioritizing pre-school learning and spending more quality time with children, Anganwadi teachers and helpers have come a long way. [...]
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March 26, 2024In an effort to ensure that every household in the Anganwadi community had access to child-friendly learning materials, we started a novel initiative called ‘Toy Library’, which allowed parents to borrow toys and learning resources for their children.
“The Toy Library has been very useful for children. Whatever we teach at Anganwadi, they can continue learning at home independently. Parents also feel more equipped to engage their children at home. No wonder, within just two months of its launch, over 100 toys were borrowed from our Anganwadi.”
– Bhavya, Anganwadi teacher
The Toy Library concept was welcomed by the community and the time spent on learning at home increased!
“My child always preplans what he’d like to take home from the Toy Library. He has also become very responsible in maintaining the toys because he knows he must return them! In the past 3 months, we have borrowed 20 times already.”
– Shwetha, Parent, Vijayanagara Anganwadi, Doddaballapur [...]
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March 26, 2024We have seen great transformation take place when parents and community members are involved in shaping learning spaces for children and understand the importance of preschool education. The Anganwadi at Katamnallur, Bengaluru, transformed from a dull space to a vibrant and colourful learning centre, where children love to visit every day and parents and community members gather to participate in various activities.
“When we started our intervention, we saw that the environment at the Anganwadi was not safe or conducive for children. Although the community could contribute to the Anganwadi’s development, there was a major gap between the community, local leaders and Anganwadi teachers.”
– Gouri, Coordinator
Through community celebrations and fun events, we involved community members in the Anganwadi activities. As their participation grew, their understanding about the significance of early learning and development also increased and they readily contributed to the centre’s development.
“Community involvement in Anganwadi is so important. Inspired by Makkala Jagriti’s work, we saw the community, parents and Bala Vikas Samithi members come together and show greater ownership towards the Anganwadi.”
– Subramanya Swamy, Doddabanahalli Gram Panchayat Member [...]
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October 12, 2023Vathsala born in Shimoga, moved to Bangalore at the age of 8 and started her journey with Makkala Jagriti during her 6th standard. For a book lover in Vathsala Makkala Jagriti provided a treasure trove of books that opened new horizons of genres for her at a very young age. She had an affinity towards the English language and wanted to master it. The life skill sessions provided at the centre and the perpetual mentoring and sharing sessions she had at the centre got her covered with her communication skills immensely.
Makkala Jagriti offered Vathsala much more than books. She fondly remembers Hema Aunty, who was a facilitator at that point, who patiently sat with her, listened to her and gave her new perspectives on life when there was no one else to listen to her. With the guidance of a mentor at Makkala Jagriti, Vathsala gained confidence and self-understanding.
Today, Vathsala is the principal of a preschool, a journey that began as an assistant teacher, an experience spread across 15 years in the field of education. Inspired by her experiences, she decided to support her government school in Shimoga and provide the children with the opportunities and experiences she couldn’t get when she was studying there. She reached out to Makkala Jagriti and gathered resources in a week to support the children at Shimoga.
She credits Makkala Jagriti for honing her communication skills and teaching her the value of listening without judgment. What Vathsala treasures most about Makkala Jagriti is its inclusivity and acceptance of all. The organization’s ethos of treating everyone equally is a lesson she carries with her as she strives to make a difference in the lives of children, offering them the knowledge and experiences she once yearned for. [...]
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October 12, 2023Bharath embarked on his journey with Makkala Jagriti when he was in 8th grade. However, financial constraints forced him to discontinue school when he reached the 12th grade. Despite these formidable challenges, Bharath clung to hope and seized the opportunities presented to him at the center. The community center has shaped him into a responsible young person.
Over the years, Bharath wore multiple hats within the MJ community. From an eager intern to a dedicated facilitator, he crafted knowledge and experience from the various workshops organized for youth. These experiences served as stepping stones for his personal growth and evolution. The opportunities that unfurled through his association with MJ molded him into a change-maker. He imbibed the qualities of empathy, leadership, and a deep sense of responsibility toward society.
Today, Bharath stands tall as an entrepreneur running an event management firm. He was keen on providing job opportunities to others in his community. His entrepreneurial venture not only reflects his ambition but also his commitment to giving back to the Adugodi community. Through his initiative, he extends a helping hand to countless young individuals, offering them opportunities, guidance, and hope.
Bharath’s story is a testament to the transformative power of education, mentorship, and community support. He is not just a success story but a beacon of inspiration for those who dare to dream and make a difference in their own communities. [...]
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October 12, 2023Sangeetha lives in the Gopalapuram community and was spending her life sitting idly at home after completing her Bachelors in Commerce. That’s when she discovered the Makkala Jagriti community center in the Gopalapuram community. The idea of joining classes struck her, believing that it could be a transformative experience. She decided to take a chance and enrolled at Makkala Jagriti.
The community at MJ welcomed her with open arms, offering her a sense of belonging and freedom she had never experienced at home. They introduced her to basic computer skills and encouraged her to participate in outdoor activities she had missed out on during her school and college years. MJ offered classes in spoken English and computer skills, fostering an atmosphere of support and encouragement.
She recalls being ridiculed for speaking in English by her classmates as well as the community members and feeling insecure about herself. MJ opened a platform for Sangeetha to openly communicate with her friends and the facilitators without being judged.
Slowly she started to shed her fears, hesitations, and insecurities, take part in different activities, and take up responsibilities at the community center. Through Yuva Cafe, she secured a job and started believing in her abilities. Now, she works with Prime Placement Vision supporting her family and pursuing her dreams.
Sangeetha was a timid and insecure girl before being a part of the community center, Today, she has blossomed into a self-assured, self-reliant individual, eager to seize control of her life and pursue her aspirations. She encourages other youth from her community to join and have similar life-changing experiences. [...]
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October 12, 2023Anjali is a multi-talented young girl, currently in the ninth grade. She possesses a deep love for books, a strong passion for painting, and the determination to excel academically. Yet, her family circumstances have been far from her dreams as her father is an alcoholic, and her mother was in great turmoil because of her sister’s loss and her husband’s abusive behavior.
Anjali’s grandmother is highly resilient and the breadwinner of the family, owning a petty shop. Anjali, with her dreams and ambitions, carried the weight of her aspirations silently, unwilling to burden her family with a desire to acquire new skills as it needed financial assistance.
Anjali’s life took a transformative turn when she discovered Makkla Jagriti through her friends. Anjali found the nurturing environment she had longed for in our Kumara Park community center. Anjali engaged wholeheartedly in all the activities and classes at our center. She became highly motivated when the government recognized her science experiment as the “ Best Experiment” with rewards.
Anjali says she learned that true knowledge goes beyond textbooks. Her clear message to the world is that regardless of one’s family circumstances, aspirations and goals are worth pursuing and achieving. Now, she has become an inspiration to her younger brother, illuminating his path toward a brighter and more promising future. [...]
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October 12, 2023Shreya, a passionate young girl and the daughter of an auto-rickshaw driver and a homemaker encountered significant financial hardship, especially when her mother lost a substantial amount of money in a chit fund. Witnessing her mother’s health deteriorate and her father struggling to bear the family’s expenses, Shreya, as a single daughter in the family, was determined to make a difference.
Shreya was in tears when she expressed her deep gratitude for Makkal Jagriti, who came into her life like a guardian angel at the right time and provided her with financial support to cover her school fees during her tenth standard and also for the outstanding academic support she received during her PUC. Today, Shreya stands proudly as a first-year BCom student, who wants to achieve great things in her career.
Shreya’s ambition was to become a dancer earlier and she acknowledges that Makkala Jagriti not only facilitated her academic growth but also provided a platform for her to perform and explore her passion. She now ambitiously aspires to be both a software engineer and a dance teacher simultaneously. With unwavering determination and joy, she also expresses her passion for multiple pursuits and calls her multi-passionate, declaring, “I want to be everything, and I can be everything.” [...]
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October 12, 2023Simran is a twelfth-grade arts student from a small community called Gopalapuram. Initially, she never knew that a world beyond family existed and was confined to the routines of household chores and she was content with those aspects of her life.
She also admitted that, earlier, she wasn’t aware of herself, her aspirations, and her potential, and was filled with uncertainty. After Makkala Jagriti’s intervention, her goals and career aspirations were fueled, and her passion for learning and sharing knowledge ignited. Now she sees herself as an educator.
Makkala Jagriti provided her with the essential life skills needed to communicate effectively, be bold, and, most importantly, understand herself. She also mentioned that she didn’t have any friends earlier in the community, and now she has friends who have become her extended family.
Simran’s vision for the future is bright, involving her pursuit of higher studies and the establishment of her own textile and clothing business. She also mentioned that she never had the chance or courage to talk to strangers, and now she is confidently sharing her story with the world with a big smile and she feels incredibly proud of herself. [...]
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October 12, 2023In the face of adversity, Srikanth has gracefully found his way out with community support. Losing his father at a young age and burdened by family debt, he was forced to discontinue school, missing crucial years of education. The thought of returning to the same school, fearing ridicule, loomed as an obstacle. However, Makkala Jagriti emerged as a guiding light in Srikanth’s life.
MJ’s scholarship program helped Srikanth to restart his education and the community program provided him with specialized attention to bridge his educational gaps. After completing 10th grade he pursued a Diploma in Computer Science. Through Makkala Jagriti’s youth program, he underwent a remarkable transformation. From a hesitant and introverted individual, he emerged as an active participant, discovering his latent leadership skills through choreography for cultural events. His dedicated participation in the community center nurtured his exceptional talent in dance, elevating it from a passion to a career.
Today, Srikanth is not just a freelance dance choreographer but has also graced Kannada films with his acting prowess while pursuing his higher education. Beyond his achievements, he stands tall as a role model in the Valluvarpuram Community, inspiring others to transcend adversity and chase their dreams with determination. [...]
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October 11, 2023Mahesh, an outgoing and curious teenager, discovered Makkala Jagriti during his 9th grade. Initially, he would attend the community center’s classes, play around, and return. The learning center for this 14-year-old with so much energy and enthusiasm gave him space to unapologetically be himself and blatantly express himself without any fear of judgment.
“We wanted to scream somedays and we were allowed to do that until we got tired of it” – Mahesh recalls this bursting into laughter.
Coming from a traditional school set up where only marks and ambitions were valued, to a place where he was accepted for everything he did and appreciated for his smallest creations made him feel seen and instilled in him a desire to do better. This newfound freedom allowed him to discover his love for drawing, which later became a pivotal life skill.
Mahesh played different roles at Makkala Jagriti starting from a student, to being an intern, moving to facilitator, and working with CSR projects. Later on, he worked with Dream A Dream as a facilitator of arts and got an opportunity to be a part of a student exchange program in the US. He completed his diploma in Early Childhood Education in the US and started off his career in the corporate world back in India. He worked with Vivo, and Xiaomi, and is currently working with Titan, handling the large format category training for south region.
The collaborative spirit and the freedom to take risks and learn from mistakes that he imbibed from Makkala Jagriti have been instrumental in his professional success. He continues to carry a sketchbook with him, drawing upon the skills he honed at the community centrer, creating mind maps and sketches that aid his work at Titan. Mahesh’s journey from an inquisitive teenager to a leader in the corporate world is a testament to the transformative power of Makkala Jagriti and its enduring impact on his life. [...]
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October 11, 2023Girish comes from a lower-middle-class family in Bengaluru. He had to battle tuberculosis at a young age and his family was very protective about him because of that. He was not allowed to go play with his friends or spend time outside. It was during his high school days he discovered his passion for football while watching the school team play on a vast ground and being a part of a game once. Due to financial constraints, he couldn’t afford good training for the same. Makkala Jagriti happened to him at this point and changed his life completely for the better.
He started his journey with Makkala Jagriti thinking it would help him academically. But what he discovered there has changed his life. He stumbled upon an opportunity to be a part of football coaching from the second week of joining Makkala Jagriti. His family wasn’t initially supportive of his football dreams, but his determination took him a long way.
Girish’s dedication paid off when he was handpicked for a selection match and went on to represent India in a tournament in Paris, scoring 8 goals. This experience broadened his horizons and fueled his passion for the sport. Girish’s father eventually realized his son’s potential and began supporting him in his dreams.
Today he is a 29-year-old, doing a course in Exercise in Sports Science at the MESA Community College in Arizona, US. Girish is forever grateful for the opportunities Makkala Jagriti provided, as they paved the way for his journey as a footballer and beyond.
While societal pressures mount for him to settle down, Girish remains steadfast in pursuing his dream to become an athletic trainer. His mother stands as his unwavering pillar of support. Girish’s life beautifully exemplifies Makkala Jagriti’s vision, emphasizing that
“Where you are born should not limit how far you go” [...]
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October 11, 2023Breaking this linguistic barrier and helping children embrace English as a tool for self-expression and communication is a vital goal. This is where the “Fun with English” competitions come into play, conducted annually to dispel the apprehension surrounding English learning and to encourage children to utilize the language through engaging activities.
Our facilitators at Makkala Jagriti started providing meticulous training to our children in government schools with the vision of instilling in them confidence in the English language. It was difficult to talk children into participating in the competition in the beginning where they were apprehensive about their English skills and hesitant to participate in programs. With continuous dialogue and with the support of their parents, we could rope in many of them for the competition. Even in the challenging times of the pandemic, we persisted in our mission, adapting the competition to an online format, and reaching students in need of English exposure. In the post-pandemic world, engaging children in the “Fun with English” became easier, and to our astonishment, 80% of kids from each school took part in the competition in 2022.
Students who once hesitated to engage with English are now enthusiastic participants, ready to take charge. Their involvement has gone beyond the competition; they now actively contribute ideas and take the lead in conducting events. This initiative has not only bridged the language gap but has also instilled newfound confidence in students, who eagerly look forward to each competition. [...]
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October 11, 2023Leaving a hectic job at Amazon behind, Rekha started afresh with Makkala Jagriti 18 months ago. Rekha got acquainted with Makkala Jagriti through her daughter who was part of an Anganwadi in which Makkala Jagriti’s intervention was involved. The Mother’s meetings and discussions she was part of provided her with immense insights into the critical importance of Early Childhood Education, particularly for children aged 2-6 years. It was a revelation, and she felt a deep desire to share this knowledge with others.
She grabbed the first opportunity that came her way and applied for the position of facilitator at Makkala Jagriti. Here, she could educate parents and teachers about early childhood education, nurturing their understanding of how vital it is to pay attention to children’s formative years. Her dedication and newfound knowledge brought positive changes not only in her daughter but also in the Anganwadi she worked with.
With Makkala Jagriti she finds her purpose and the job satisfaction she was missing in her previous job. The inspiring and non-threatening work environment motivates her to come up with new ideas in the domain of Early Childhood Education. She feels happy and proud to work for a social cause and her family wholeheartedly supports her in what she does. This journey allowed her to strike a work-life balance, learn daily, and grow in an environment that nurtures her every day, where making mistakes was part of the learning process. [...]
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October 11, 2023In the heart of Ramagondanahalli unfolds the tale of Shanthala, a dedicated teacher whose love for her craft and children ignited a transformative journey. Eight years ago, she stepped into the role of an Anganwadi teacher. Despite undergoing training in preschool education, she felt a void in her ability to thoroughly prepare her students for school.
Managing the Anganwadi alone initially, Shanthala’s path intersected with Makkala Jagriti, providing her with crucial preschool education training. This restored her confidence, opening a door of possibilities for her to come up with innovative ideas in teaching. With the arrival of a helper, she gained the gift of time, enabling her to delve into preschool activities, and domains of development, letting her maintain a consistent timetable.
Shanthala’s creativity thrived as she designed teaching-learning materials, such as flashcards, ID cards, and so on for the kids. Innovative teaching techniques strengthened her teaching practices. Her efforts were extended to parents, engaging them in crafting materials for their children’s education.
Her parent meetings evolved into platforms discussing the significance of preschool education and early childhood development. The result was a collaborative community, steadfastly supporting the Anganwadi’s needs, witnessing a transformation in its very essence. Ramagondanahalli remains a model learning center today.
Shanthala’s narrative encapsulates the remarkable evolution of a teacher who tirelessly seeks to enhance her students’ lives with her genuine efforts Shanthala epitomizes the profound impact one passionate educator can have on an entire community. [...]
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October 11, 2023Nirmala stepped into the realm of Doddabalapur’s Rojipura 2 Anganwadi, a place marred by neglect and with 3 to 4 children attending the center regularly. Makkala Jagriti’s intervention gave Nirmala more insights into Early Childhood Education and instilled in her the courage and confidence to confront authorities and the community to collaborate for the transformation the center yearned for.
Under MJ’s mentorship, Nirmala’s path became a shining example of remarkable transformation. Through her dedicated participation in MJ’s training sessions, she evolved into a more skilled and capable educator. Her timely collaborations with the Panchayat unlocked the potential for the profound change that the children at Rojipura deserved, solidifying her role as a true agent of change.
Her efforts bore fruits fueling the drastic transformation of the Anganwadi. The place found a new vigor with a creative learning landscape attracting more kids to the center every day. By 2018, the Anganwadi’s attendance soared from a mere 4 to a flourishing 38. Once isolated Anganwadi of Rojipura, now attracted children even from private schools remaining a testament to Nirmala’s indomitable spirit and the profound effect of positive change. [...]
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October 7, 2023School parliament elections are not news to us. But it took a remarkable twist in the current academic year. Traditionally, teachers would handpick student representatives, but this year witnessed a groundbreaking change. Children themselves engaged in the democratic process by electing ministers through a formal election, infusing the proceedings with all the elements of a true democracy.
This transformation was made possible by Makkala Jagriti’s intervention in Government schools, aimed at fostering the well-rounded development of students through experiential learning. Their innovative approach revitalized the practice of democratic elections in schools, incorporating modern voting technology. Students from government schools participated by submitting nominations, engaging in campaigns, and utilizing voting apps to replicate the electronic voting systems used in real-world elections.
This initiative empowered the children with a profound understanding of their right to choose and the responsibilities that come with it. Transitioning from being appointed to earning their positions through the electoral process instilled a sense of purpose and a deeper comprehension of their roles and responsibilities. The experience not only made them accountable for their choices but also nurtured a greater appreciation for the democratic values that underpin our society. [...]
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October 7, 2023School assemblies are languished practices in many of the schools in Karnataka. Those who followed experienced it as a mundane routine that often went unnoticed.
With Makkala Jagriti’s intervention in government schools, assemblies have found their lost lustre for holistic development, not just for students but for teachers too. Every child, regardless of their background, deserves the chance to learn, express, and shine. Thus, assemblies have transformed into an exciting arena for creativity and leadership.
From 9:00 to 9:20 every morning, children gather in this dynamic space to showcase their talents and grow. Twice a week, students take the stage, performing songs, speeches, and mono acts, fostering an environment of expression and growth.
This transformation extends beyond students empowering teachers as well. Makkala Jagriti’s Teacher Empowerment Program equips educators with skills to guide and inspire children effectively.
The impact this practice has brought in the last year is remarkable. Hesitant individuals have become confident initiators of this daily energy boost. Assemblies are no longer treated as a routine. They are creative venues where ideas flourish and talents shine.
This year, the experience has been fine-tuned, building on the success of the past. It’s a movement towards fostering confidence, creativity, and camaraderie among students. It’s a journey from routine to vibrant, from mundane to fun, making every assembly a source of joyful learning. [...]
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October 7, 2023Harish belongs to a poor family in Tamil Nadu and his life took an unexpected turn during a trip he took to Banglore. He was rescued by the Child Protection Force and was fostered at the Child Care Institution (CCI), Bangalore. Despite tracking down his family couldn’t ensure his release, since his parents couldn’t take him back with them due to the financial crisis they were undergoing.
The walls of CCI Home became his refuge from here after. Life had another blow set for him and he lost both of his parents during his stay at CCI. Yet within this storm, his spirit remained unbroken. A seed of talent stayed dormant within him waiting for the right moment. He resorted to the path of educating himself to pull himself out of the darkness. With his hard work and determination, he managed to skip grades and complete his 10th standard successfully and later he completed a diploma in Engineering. His story, however, was not just one of academics. In the world of sports and Taekwondo, Harish’s prowess shone brilliantly.
Today, Harish stands as a testament to the power of perseverance. A government servant, he serves not only his role but also as an embodiment of hope. His journey continues to ignite the flame of determination in others, proving that even amidst life’s harshest trials, the human spirit can emerge stronger, brighter, and capable of crafting its destiny. [...]
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October 7, 2023The true visionary behind the inception of Makkala Jagriti’s Learning Center at the Government Childcare institution in Karnataka is an 11-year-old boy named Manoj in 2007. Manoj was outcasted by his own people owing to his association with theft, substance use, and his rogue nature. He was a school dropout at the UKG level, underwent emotional, physical, and sexual abuse at a very young age, and was exploited by a mafia group to steal. The trauma the kid had to undergo remains unfathomable.
Although he was curious to learn, his initial behavioural issues at the learning center at CCI home led to clashes with other children. He struggled to fit into school due to the ill-treatment of teachers towards him and any alternate option felt completely alien to him. After his involvement in criminal activities, he cycled through various institutions. Over time, Makkala Jagriti’s acceptance helped him change, engage, and learn, ultimately leading to personal growth and redefinition of his path.
It’s his suggestion to our founder to establish a learning center at CCI home has given wings to the innovation that is running successfully today. Although he despised being confined at the children’s home he liked the idea of having a learning centre at Balamandira. Manoj’s belief in helping these children aligned with MJ’s mission, leading to collaboration with the Department of Women and Child Development. Despite Manoj’s untimely passing, his vision endures in MJ’s work for vulnerable children. [...]
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October 7, 2023This is a boy of 16, who came to roam alone in Banglore and ended up in the Child Care Institution in Koramangala. The Maker’s Space sessions conducted by Makkala Jagriti are a space that gave him immense happiness. His interest in creating working models was evident from the beginning itself. He came up with innovative ideas and joined forces with other children and created amazing working models of Solar Water pumps, Speakers, and Hydraulic JCB among others.
Not only did he excel in developing innovative projects, but also emerged as a natural leader in the group. He took it upon himself to patiently explain the intricacies of materials and techniques to his friends. Driven by his thoughts and ideas, he began crafting models independently. A sensor automatic water machine, a Tattoo Machine, and much more sprang forth from his creative mind.
He was fostered in the CCI for one year and during the time of his release, he promised to make a big Bluetooth speaker and connect back through pictures and video calls to the facilitators. He leaves us with hope and reassurance, that the children we discovered in the depths of despair can rise once more. With the right care, attention, and support, they can overcome all odds stacked against them. [...]
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October 7, 2023In the heart of Marenahalli Panchayath lies Maralukunte Anganwadi, a quaint space basked in sunlight, but lacking the vibrancy it deserved. With dormant playgrounds, empty racks, and untouched storerooms, it yearned for transformation. Recognizing its untapped potential, our team at Makkala Jagriti intervened, breathing life into the spaces, creating a positive hub of learning. Laughter now fills the classrooms as children engage joyfully with newfound playgrounds and materials.
However, the real challenge was finding a teacher. A facilitator from MJ temporarily took on the role until a helper from another Anganwadi was promoted to the position. Through MJ’s training, she blossomed into a confident teacher, inspiring others with her dedication to learning and growth.
As the teacher flourished, so did the connection with the community, understanding the significance it made in the lives of children. Now it stands proudly as a model center in the region. This transformation reminds us that one person’s dedication can create ripples of change that resonate far and wide. Maralukunte Anganwadi is proof that with love and commitment, anything is possible. [...]
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October 7, 2023Asfiya Khanam is a young woman from Gopalpuram, who defied societal norms and embarked on an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and empowerment. At the age of 17, she was married and started a family, believing that her life was destined to revolve around her role as a wife and mother.
However, life took a significant turn when she stumbled upon the Yuva Jagriti Program by Makkala Jagriti. Little did she know this decision would mark a turning point in her life.
“I had to come out of my chains and be a changemaker” – She said.
Asfiya had a fire in her to learn again, which led her to restart her education after 7 years. The Yuva Cafe was a safe space to express herself and take up responsibilities nurturing the leadership qualities in her. Asfiya works as a facilitator and coordinator at Makkala Jagrit now.
Her journey exemplifies the power of self-belief, resilience, and the profound impact that education and empowerment can have on one’s life. Today she stands as a role model for many women in her community and inspires them to pursue their dreams. [...]
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News & Events
This month, we are delighted to bring to you the story of Anithalakshmi, Srikanth Biradar, and Anandhi – all of them are from different regions, doing different things. What is it that they have in common? How is it that they are part of one story? Read on to find out more. Anithalakshmi: Leading the Way in Early Childhood Education Anithalakshmi is an ICDS Supervisor overseeing 27 Anganwadis. Despite being loaded with umpteen tasks, she […] [...]
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At Makkala Jagriti, we have learnt that true empowerment of children and youth happens by nurturing the ecosystem around them. Our recent efforts have focused on engaging educators, youth leaders, and entire communities to create environments where every child can thrive. We’re excited to share with you the progress we’ve made in the month of July. Transforming Early Childhood Education Nationwide In partnership with the Wipro Foundation, we recently conducted a three-day workshop on Early […] [...]
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As summer winds down, we eagerly step into a new academic year with new hopes and aspirations. It is important to make the children and teachers feel special and we welcomed them in our centers with joy. Handmade medals, fun face masks, cheerful smiles, shining stars, and colorful handprints were just a few of the things that adorned our spaces, symbolizing the return of our children and the endless possibilities ahead. Meanwhile, our dedicated facilitators […] [...]
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In a harmonious fusion of talent and joy, our V.V Giri community center recently played host to the popular Kannada Rap Artist Gubbi, creating an unforgettable experience for all involved. During the workshop, our youth Srikanth along with the children danced to another song by Gubbi, which moved the artist to tears. Meeting him in person was truly a dream come true for our children. Witness the magic here Accompanied by music producer John, Gubbi […] [...]
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“It was my dream to travel by flight but never imagined that I would be able to achieve it at this young age” – Asiya Asiya and Anjum, two bright stars from our Avalahalli Community Youth Centre, are soaring high in confidence and pride. Selected to represent us at a prestigious national-level youth consultation workshop organized by Samvada, their path from Avalahalli to Delhi is nothing short of a testament to the power of dreams. […] [...]
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Our children’s excitement is palpable as they dive into the days brimming with exhilarating activities, collaborative teamwork, and thrilling new adventures. Makkala Jagriti is organizing summer camps across its programs – in schools, Child Care Institutions, and Community Centres, providing our children with a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and, most importantly, have fun. This year, we are featuring unique activities to ignite their curiosity as they dabble in different themes such as nature, mysteries […] [...]
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As we step into April, we’re not just embracing the onset of summer but also marking the beginning of another year for Makkala Jagriti. Amidst the vibrant energy of our summer camps, we take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary year we’ve had. We are filled with gratitude for the remarkable impact your support has enabled at Makkala Jagriti. 2023-24 was indeed a remarkable year, highlighted by Makkala Jagriti’s 20th anniversary celebrations. We marked […] [...]
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We are overjoyed to share with you a monumental achievement in our journey toward shaping a brighter future for our youngest learners. Makkala Jagriti has won the esteemed HCLTech Grant Edition IX under the Education category for 2024. This is a recognition of our relentless efforts in transforming Early Childhood Care and Education ecosystem, and we feel proud and grateful. In India, Anganwadis play a crucial role in providing child development services, particularly for rural […] [...]
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A powerful learning session amidst nature Bangalore’s iconic Cubbon Park may be known world over, but there are many youth in the communities we work with, who have never been there or explored the place. MJ’s Yuva Jagriti team seized the opportunity and created an impactful first time experience by taking nearly 60 youth of the Gopalapuram community for an outbound experiential life skills session to Cubbon Park. It was a surprise for many of [...] [...]
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Helping children dream and learn Children engage with student volunteers at the Makkala Jagriti centres. A graduation ceremony for children who visit the Makkala Jagriti centres. The Sharada Sthree Samaja in Kumara Park, Bengaluru is bright and cheerful with the laughter of children. On a Saturday at 3 pm, about twenty kids have gathered here to do homework or play. Four student volunteers are involved in engaging the children and helping them out. The children [...] [...]
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1, 2, 3… 11 Yes! Eleven Makkala Jagriti now has its footprint in 11 districts of Karnataka. In the month of July, we expanded our presence to the districts of Bidar, Vijayapura, Raichur, and Yadgir where we would be working towards transforming Child Care Institutions (CCIs) into spaces of holistic learning for children. We shall be working in 26 CCIs across 10 districts overall. The team, which has now grown to nearly 30 members, spent [...] [...]
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We have a new Yuva Café! The last weekend of June was an exciting one for us… One that culminated in the birth of something new! Presenting our new Yuva Café at Gopalapuram, Bengaluru! A safe space dedicated to empowering youth with programs aimed at helping them discover their true potential - programs in personality development, life skills and vocational training. The Café witnessed a fervent welcome from the youth of the area, all filled [...] [...]
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Introducing 'Maneyalliye Oota, Maneyalliye Paatha' Makkala Jagriti has partnered with Department of Women and Child Development, Government of Karnataka, for a state-wide intervention to support home-based schooling. Aptly called 'Maneyalliye Oota, Maneyalliye Paatha', the program was launched by Hon. Minister Smt. Shashikala Jolle, Department of Women and Child Development. It aims at equipping and encouraging parents to engage children in learning activities during the months when schools and Anganawadis remain closed due to the Covid-19 [...] [...]
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We are SAN Certified! As an organization keenly aligned to learning and evolving, Makkala Jagriti welcomed Social Audit Network (SAN) India, a chapter of Social Audit Network UK, to conduct an impact study for our school programme. The study, designed for the period of 2016 to 2019, included interviews, discussions and surveys with key stakeholders, team members, donors and volunteers that offered a detailed analysis of the programme and its impact. It gave us an [...] [...]
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Raising funds to support "Learning under Lockdown" Makkala Jagriti stepped up quickly to support children and families from underserved communities during the Covid pandemic. Ever since the lockdown, with schools continuing to remain closed, we have supported over 18,000 children and youth from marginalized communities across Karnataka through allround support - from essential supplies to thoughtfully designed “Learning Kits” for home schooling. To help us meet these emergency expenses, we have been raising funds on Give India through generous donors [...] [...]
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Our Partners
A massive movement of social change like Makkala Jagriti cannot gain adequate momentum without the active support of our partners and donors. We are grateful for their contribution.
