Across Noida’s evolving neighborhoods especially Sector 137 children from low-income families face daily challenges with education. Unstable housing, financial struggles, and long work hours for parents mean that school isn’t a guarantee.
Stepping into this gap is educator Chhaya Sharma, whose decades of experience span central and private schools. She leads the UshaKiran learning center with a simple, powerful goal: “I wanted every child to not just learn here, but feel part of society and attend mainstream school.”
Early Steps and Mainstreaming
Chhaya’s work began informally, hosting lessons in her home for a handful of children.
“Morning classes were just the start. Once they could read and write, I took them for admission to local government schools” she recalls.
It wasn’t just about literacy; getting every child into age-appropriate classes involved persistent advocacy with school principals near Shahdara village.
Chhaya adds, “It’s not just government schools. I approached private schools in the village because some of the children expressed a desire to study in English medium. The schools gave us discounts in fees and welcomed our children with open arms, as they also wanted to be part of this noble cause.”
Remedial Classes and Volunteer Power
Chhaya shares: “Remedial classes at UshaKiran, which began with dedicated volunteers, are now supported by NECI company. With CSR funding received since last year, we’ve hired teachers who teach over 250 children daily. This support ensures consistent, quality education for children from underserved communities“.
“Sometimes it seemed impossible. But our girls were incredibly committed; they studied day and night. Many passed their Class 10th and 12th exams through NIOS on the first attempt. They are now working independently with respectable jobs, supporting their family income,” notes Chhaya.
Highlight:
The girls outperformed and became role models in their communities.
Beyond Academics: Creativity and Community
Students are encouraged to participate in group activities, art projects, and local cultural events—like painting community walls in Sector 137. These experiences build confidence and foster neighborhood bonds, making learning an everyday part of their lives.
- Highlight: Every child is like a gold mine hardworking, full of potential, and incredibly respectful. If you give them a chance, they give everything in return.
Digital Inclusion & Robotics Success
Most children arrived without ever touching a computer. The center started with digital basics and, over time, introduced STEM and robotics with help from global mentors. Through weekly online workshops, supported by international robotics champions, UshaKiran’s students practiced consistently and even competed nationally.
“It was a proud moment seeing students who’d never used a laptop now flying to Pune to compete alongside top schools. They ranked 29th out of 50. This is what opportunity can do,” says Chhaya.
Parental Involvement
Most parents, themselves uneducated, couldn’t help their children with studies.
“These are first-generation learners. Through counselling, parents realized the value of education and chose not to send their children to work, supporting them instead. Over time, families became partners in their children’s learning journeys, joining events and ensuring school remained a priority even during the challenges of COVID-19″. says Chhaya
Impact:
- Dozens of first-generation learners now thrive in mainstream schools.
- Girls have emerged as academic and community leaders.
- Volunteers and families have built a flexible, supportive network.
- Students excel in national STEM contests and creative pursuits.
UshaKiran’s community classroom initiative, led by Chhaya Sharma, stands as proof that local action and human connection can bridge Noida’s toughest education gaps. Through mentorship, involvement, and adaptability, children find real hope and new opportunity. Neighborhoods become stronger when every child is given the chance to learn and succeed.
Official links
- Website: https://ushakiran.org.in
- LinkedIn profile: https://in.linkedin.com/company/ushakiran
- Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ushakiran.india/
