Mission Shiksha
Launched on 4 May 2021 in response to the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mission Shiksha is a compassionate initiative of United Way of Baroda dedicated to supporting children who lost one or both parents during the pandemic. Recognising that education was at risk of becoming another casualty of this unprecedented crisis, the programme was designed to ensure uninterrupted learning while addressing the emotional and financial challenges faced by affected families. Operating across six districts of Gujarat—Vadodara, Anand, Panchmahal, Bharuch, Narmada, and Chhota Udepur—Mission Shiksha provides comprehensive support through school fee assistance, educational kits, and, where required, ration kits and utility bill assistance for families in need. Beyond financial aid, the initiative nurtures confidence, emotional well-being, resilience, and academic growth, empowering children to continue their education with dignity and hope while creating a secure foundation for a brighter future.
Summer Camp: Learning Beyond the Classroom (May 2024)
Mission Shiksha organised a vibrant Summer Camp for students from Standards 5 to 10 to make learning enjoyable, interactive, and meaningful beyond the classroom. The programme combined English writing and communication sessions with creative storytelling, grammar games, and vocabulary-building exercises, while weekly art and craft activities encouraged imagination through painting, origami, quilling, and recycled craft projects. Students also participated in engaging mathematics activities, puzzles, mental maths, and practical science experiments that simplified complex concepts through hands-on learning. Designed to rebuild confidence, enhance creativity, and strengthen academic skills, the camp inspired children to rediscover the joy of learning in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Children’s Day Celebration (14 November 2024)
Mission Shiksha celebrated Children’s Day with more than 150 students from its educational projects through a joyful event that blended learning, creativity, and recreation. The celebration featured an exciting “Magic of Science” demonstration by the Community Science Center, energetic Zumba sessions, a colourful fashion show where children confidently portrayed their dream professions, and a range of interactive games and activities that encouraged participation and teamwork. The programme created an inclusive and memorable experience that strengthened children’s confidence, celebrated their aspirations, and reinforced the importance of learning through fun and meaningful engagement.
Memory Boost & Mind Productivity: Exam Success Sessions
To prepare Grade 10 and 12 students for their board examinations, Mission Shiksha organised specialised sessions titled “Memory Boost & Mind Productivity: Exam Success,” introducing students to effective study techniques including the Feynman Method, Mind Palace, Mnemonics, the Forgetting Curve, Spaced Repetition, and the Pomodoro Technique. The sessions also incorporated deep breathing exercises, positive visualisation, focus-building strategies, and a structured 30-day preparation plan to help students improve memory, enhance concentration, manage examination stress, and approach their board exams with greater confidence, discipline, and clarity.
Exam Wishing Kits Distribution
As a gesture of encouragement ahead of the board examinations, Mission Shiksha distributed Exam Wishing Kits to 175 students from Grades 10 and 12 at Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Bhavan Hall. Each kit contained essential stationery and examination materials required for the students’ academic preparations, while also serving as a symbol of motivation and support from the organisation. The initiative reflected Mission Shiksha’s commitment to standing beside every child during important academic milestones, inspiring them to perform with confidence and determination.
Activities that Transform Lives
- Academic Performance Review Meetings: Regular assessments to track progress and guide improvements.
- Therapeutic Counselling: Emotional support to help children navigate their loss and trauma.
- Positive Parenting Workshops for Mothers: Equipping mothers with tools to foster resilience and growth.
- Educational Kit Distribution: Providing necessary supplies to ensure uninterrupted learning.
- Mentoring Sessions: Practical tips on exam preparation to boost academic confidence.
Through Mission Shiksha, United Way of Baroda continues its commitment to building brighter futures for children, helping them rise above adversity and thrive.
Between 2021-2024, the program supported 356 Children, 175 Families with utility bills and 100 families with ration kits to help them ease their financial stress.
Impact Overview:
Impact
300
Students received academic support since inception
178
Families received six-month utility bill support, which is covering Gas Bills, Electricity Bills and Rent
100
Families received Family essentials