REPORT OF THE ASHALAYAM EDUCATIONAL CAMP 2010
Don Bosco Ashalayam, being a project for destitute children many of them do not have an opportunity to go out to visit parents or relatives. An annual programme is organized in the form of camps for a change from the usual environment and routine which enhances their possibilities for personality development. During this year 4 such camps were organized for the various age groups and everyone enjoyed every bit of their “OUT STAY” as it was well planned.
1. 40 children below the age of seven reached Ferrando Institute in Bandel, Hooghly District, West Bengal, which accommodates one of the homes of Ashalayam and they were kept busy with games, good food, outings and many other activities that kept them enthusiastic and vibrant. The 400 year old Bandel Church was one of the wonders that they have seen so far. As it was conducted by some of our senior girls it was enriching and enjoyable for both the groups.
2. Environment and culture are very dear topics for all Indians with a rich heritage. The boys who completed the school finals and the seniors were taken for the said programme which gave them a taste of Indian History and appreciation of environment which leads to protection which is so very essential in today’s world.
3. Children of classes two to five were taken to Krishnanagar, Nadia District, West Bengal, the traditional city of Bengali culture. Don Bosco School with spacious building and ground was a real boon for the children for four days.
This year the motto or the theme of the camp was to make them and teach them responsible and good human beings, therefore the theme was designed as “THINK WELL OF ALL, SPEAK WELL OF ALL AND DO GOOD TO ALL”
During the camp exposure visits were made to three important places namely Shantiniketan, the home town and house of The Legend Nobel Prize winner, Kavi Rabindranath Tagore, then to Bakreshwar, a place of Hot Spring and lastly to a river dam at Massanjore.
The other activities conducted were Quiz Competition, different Group games, Adventure games, Different Cultural program competitions, Hike to Forest and lightening Tournament.
The total number of children and staff participated in the senior education camp was 250. Two Fathers and senior staff accompanied the campers.