नई सोच, नई उड़ान – Recognising Students who were once left Behind
A rural initiative that recognizes and rewards academically weak children who are making visible progress. Through motivation, recognition, and small scholarships, we’re helping them rediscover their self-worth and reignite their journey in education.
When Children Fall Behind, They Often Disappear
In many government schools across rural India, academic pressure is often only placed on students who are already performing well. Those who struggle in their studies, especially in primary and middle school, are quietly left behind. These children, often from economically or socially disadvantaged families, lack not only access to quality education, but also motivation, encouragement, and recognition. Their slow learning pace becomes a label. They’re called “weak”, and this label slowly starts defining their future. With no one to cheer them on, they lose interest. Their self-worth declines. Many begin to feel like school is not meant for them. that they are simply not capable. And so, silently and invisibly, they begin to give up on studies, on dreams, and on themselves. This isn’t a failure of intelligence. It’s a failure of recognition. And we knew something had to change.
At Ruma Devi Foundation, we believe that even the smallest progress deserves applause. That’s why we started “नई सोच, नई उड़ान” a village-school-based campaign to recognize and reward students who were once academically behind but are now trying, improving, and showing real determination.
Rather than focus only on top-performing students, this initiative shines a spotlight on those who are rising from the bottom, breaking past barriers, and making visible progress.
Key highlights of the program:
We visit rural government schools, identify students from Classes 1 to 8 who were earlier struggling but have now shown noticeable improvement in academics or behavior.
In each selected school, we choose 5 such students to honor publicly on a stage seated with chief guests and community leaders.
Each student receives a motivational award of ₹3,000, not just as a gift, but as a symbol of belief saying, “We see you. We believe in you.”
To further boost their confidence, motivational sessions are held by Mr. Atul Kumar Patel, a civil engineer with the U.S. Government, who shares his inspiring journey with the students and encourages them to aim high, despite their current challenges.
It’s not just a program. It’s a shift in mindset one where effort is celebrated, not just excellence.
Recognition That Rewires Futures
The results have been heartwarming and deeply encouraging.
In the first phase alone, schools from Rawatsar, Ramsar Kuwa, Beriwala Tala, Doodiyon Ki Dhani, and Hanuman Sagar were selected. In each of these, 5 students were honored turning classrooms into stages of celebration.
Children who were once invisible are now center stage.
Teachers report a boost in classroom participation from these students.
Parents say their children now feel proud to attend school, often dressing up for the first time just to be seen differently.
Peers are inspired too many students now want to improve, hoping to be recognized in the next round.
So far, ₹5 lakhs have been dedicated to this cause and the smiles, applause, and motivation seen in these village schools have been priceless.
How can you contribute?
💛 Be the Reason a Struggling Child Rises
Support this movement of recognition and resilience.
Sponsor motivation awards
Bring motivational speakers to more rural schools
Help create platforms for children who rise from zero to hero
Because when you reward effort, you unlock futures.
