Classroom Struggles to State-Level Success
Kriti is 13 years old and joined the Samarth Programme around nine months ago. “I live with my parents and my siblings. We are three sisters and one younger brother,” she shares with a smile. Her eldest sister is 17, followed by Kriti, then her 11-year-old sister, and finally their 4-year-old brother. Her younger brother is also connected to the centre conducting Samarth classes, where he attends preschool classes.
“My elder sister used to attend Green Action activities at the centre. When she heard about the Samarth Programme, she asked if I could join too. That is how my journey began,” reflects Kriti.
Although Kriti has always achieved good marks at school, she quickly noticed differences in the way teaching takes place. “At school, I do well, but there is a big difference in the way lessons are taught,” she explains. With around 200 students in one class, individual attention can be limited. “Teachers answer questions, but there is not always time for detailed explanations. I am not saying school is bad — it is just difficult to receive personal attention.”
She joined Samarth mainly because she was struggling with English. “It is still a challenge for me, but I can say with confidence that I have improved,” she says proudly. The patient explanations and practical examples given by teachers at the centre have helped her understand concepts more clearly.
At the centre, Kriti feels the atmosphere is different. She describes it warmly: “Here, the teacher explains every topic carefully, and we can ask questions freely. That makes me feel motivated to come every day.” She enjoys the supportive environment, her classmates, and the interactive way of learning. Creative sessions such as drawing add joy to her routine — opportunities she rarely experiences at school.
“I especially love the debates,” Kriti says enthusiastically. “They give me the chance to express myself and share my thoughts.” Over time, these activities have transformed her confidence. Once shy, she now speaks in front of others with greater ease.
Mathematics is her favourite subject, and the additional classes have proven especially helpful during exam periods. “The first time I came to the centre was between two school exams, and it made everything much easier,” she recalls. Today, she stands third in her class and considers herself an active participant in lessons.
Kriti is particularly proud of qualifying, along with five other Samarth students from grade 8, in the first phase of the Haryana State Level Competition. “Now I am waiting for the results of the second exam,” she says. “It makes me feel proud and motivates me to work even harder.”
One of her happiest memories at the centre was preparing a theatre performance on a technological topic. “I enjoyed everything — the organisation, the rehearsals, and working together as a team,” she remembers. Although the performance was not presented before a large audience, the experience strengthened her confidence.
Looking ahead, Kriti holds a clear ambition. “My dream is to join the police one day. I know it requires discipline and hard work, but I am ready.” This dream is closely connected to her father’s aspirations as well. “It is not only my dream but also my father’s. If I succeed, I will fulfil both his dream and mine.”
Her father plays an active role in her education, regularly reviewing her schoolwork and closely following her progress in the Samarth programme. He attends monthly parent meetings organised by the centre and values the consistent communication from teachers. Despite the presence of many NGOs in the area, he trusts HPPI because of its experience and structured approach.
“I come from a loving family where education is very important,” Kriti reflects. “My parents want the best for us so that we can have a better future.”
Through her journey with Samarth, Kriti has grown not only academically but personally. “Here, I feel encouraged. Here, I feel capable,” she says with quiet confidence. And step by step, she is moving closer to her dream.
