600 Dalit children enjoy Summer Camp in Patna

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Through a multitude of games and activities, hundreds of children have expressed their hidden talents, developed their team work and learned about this year's theme; the importance of saving water.

Coming from 20 of the Learning Centres we support here, children sang about the ‘saving water’ theme each morning whilst waving flags and signs that they had made about the issue. They had practiced these songs at each Centre in the weeks leading up to the event to build excitement and give an opportunity to perform to their friends.

Through quizzes and ‘tug of war’ games, they learnt about issues that arise from water shortage, with the tug of war showing how many people have to fight for access.

Lessons in fine art were particularly popular with the children through the week. Using low cost materials, they created and painted beautifully intricate pieces (see top image) including paper aquariums, wall hangings and flower paintings. Those that participated showed real enthusiasm and eagerness to learn new methods and went on to share the teaching with other children in their Centres.

Children also found out about how water is vital for growing vegetables and learned how to prepare and beautifully present a range of salads. To add a little excitement, each creation was entered into a competition (see the winners above). Sister Veena who leads the work here said “Salad is not often part of their daily diets, so for many it was first time experience and we saw how their self confidence was enhanced”.

​Games were a big part of the week and all the Centres competed against each other to win prizes, encouraging confidence, cooperation and team spirit. Veena said “Children enjoyed it thoroughly and learned a lot. They expressed such happiness and gratitude about the week, and it often helps to increase attendance at the Learning Centres”.

These Centres are child friendly environments for Dalit children who face severe caste discrimination as part of their daily lives. Work here tackles the barriers to education by providing a primary curriculum and supporting children to understand and realise their rights. Summer camps like this one, as well as celebrations, competitions, rallies and performances are all a vital part of the work, instilling confidence and encouraging self expression.

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