Project Sashakti is an initiative that aims to address two major problems, the glaring lack of quality education along with the absence of exposure to arts as a means of expression and learning. Education, which is one of the most fundamental necessities is guaranteed under the Constitution and several international treaties like the United Nations Child Rights Convention. Yet, owing to socio-economic and cultural disparities, aggravated by the pandemic, quality education for all remains a far fetched goal. Given how primary education itself is unavailable to most children, the question of art education is seldom considered. Art education is an overarching term that includes learning different art forms as well using art as a medium for learning. Art, as a means of self-expression, can empower children to become critical thinkers with a sound sense of identity. We wish to enable children to question notions of gender, social positions and engage fruitfully with their social environments.
With the increasing importance of academic proficiency, art education is often sidelined. Our project stands at the crossroads of the problem of lack of education and exposure to arts. Education should not be looked at from a linear lens, encompassing only textbook learning. Our two-tiered approach emerges from a more holistic view of education. Our project will involve impact-based and awareness-based action. We will address the problem of lack of education through teaching initiatives in government or public schools and slums in our locality. We will collaborate with experts to organize regular art workshops to give children exposure to theatre, storytelling, dance and fine arts. Through our awareness sessions, we will equip students with life skills- financial literacy, physical, socio-emotional and mental health, gender education etc. Project Sashakti will not only work towards empowering children but will also enable the enablers, the parents, by involving them in every effort and educating them.
Our goal is to work towards achieving SDG 4 (ensuring access to inclusive and equitable quality education) and rights guaranteed by the UN Child Rights Convention (Sharing Thoughts Freely, Aims of Education and Rest, Play and Culture). We resolutely believe that art serves as a catalyst for self-empowerment and we aim to reconceptualize the model of education into one which caters to the all-round development of children.