Under a flyover near Kirti Nagar in Delhi, a different story unfolds in a neighbourhood education centre where children gather every day after school. They come from nearby settlements, attend government schools, and then walk together to free classes run by an NGO. Here, they study basic subjects, revise lessons, and talk about what they want to become in life.
When asked about their future, the children answer without hesitation. Some say they want to become IAS officers, collectors, police officers, doctors, scientists, lawyers, teachers, army officers, cricketers, or dancers. One student says she wants to become a collector so she can bring water to fields and stop alcohol consumption. Another wants to join the Indian Army. Others speak about becoming doctors or police officers. Their answers reflect ambition shaped by their surroundings and experiences.
The NGO running these classes is called Punarjagran Samiti. According to a team member, the organisation has been registered since 2014 and currently operates multiple centres in Delhi and other states. Centres are opened where there is a clear need identified through surveys and discussions with parents and children. The NGO also helps enrol children who are not attending school. Punarjagran Samiti
The classes are held daily after school so children can continue formal education. At the centre featured here, around 100 children attend classes every day. The children range from kindergarten to Class 8. Many of them struggle with basic skills. Some students in Class 6 or 7 are unable to write their parents’ names, their address, or read simple Hindi when they join.
The NGO focuses first on teaching basic skills before moving on to the school syllabus. Children who show progress are guided further. Some former students have returned as part-time teachers at the same centre they once attended.
The centre functions with donations and CSR support. Funds are used for teacher salaries, stationery, and refreshments. All services are free for children. In addition to education, the NGO runs skill-based classes such as computer training, spoken classes, tailoring for women, and value sessions.
Every evening, children arrive together, study, practice tables, and talk about their plans for the future. They leave together as well, returning to the neighbourhoods they came from.
