Teachers, students and parents have given extremely positive feedback about the transformational qualities of the program. Many teachers have indicated that they themselves are more willing to participate in school activities, indicating that they are enjoying their vocation better. They have also reported that their social and family relationships have shown marked improvement.
Many teachers have reported wonderful transformation in the attitudes and behaviour of children. Children have shown improved powers of observation, fellow feelings, compassion etc. A strong bonding between the teacher and the taught has also been noticed on account of the non-judgemental nature of this program. Children are choosing to obey, practice honesty, and are willing to accept divergent views. Many children, including physically challenged children, have internalised the idea of “I CAN” and are willing to take up challenges readily.
Our earnest desire is that this program develops deep roots throughout the country to enable every child to grow to his/ her potential to become an awakened future citizen of the country.
Lets look at a few feedbacks from the teachers and students themselves:
"This program awakened the students' potential. They felt that "We can do something. We need to do something new". This effect could be seen on their studies as they were inspired to do more. Overall, this program was great for our students because it brought about lots of changes in their ideas and thoughts. They felt that "We are special. We need to do something new." [Translated from Hindi]
Rajakiya Sarvodaya Kanya Vidyalaya, Moti Bagh
"A lot of confidence has developed in girls who were not very confident before. Seventy to seventy five percent of the girls in my school used to be scared of coming alone to school or going back home alone. When they came to me for taking leave, they used to tell me "How can I come to school alone ? My neighbour who I come with has taken a holiday, so please give me a holiday too". I used to tell them that there is no need to be afraid. After going through this program, a lot of courage has developed in the girls. The girls don't tell that they can't come or go back alone. Many of them do come alone and go back home alone too". [Translated from Hindi]
Babe Ali School, Bhopal
"I used to be very scared before. After ma'm showed me the program about facing challenges, I've stopped being afraid. I face challenges head on. I get to think good thoughts because of this and also wonder why I used to be afraid before. When I went to Arera Colony [for a competition], they asked me very tough questions. I faced the challenges and won the competition."[Translated from Hindi]
Babe Ali School, Bhopal
Bharataiya Vidya Bhavan Vidyashram, NIRD campus, Hyderabad
"I used to be scared to talk to other kids because I am handicapped [speech impaired]. They used to make fun of me when I spoke…After seeing the Awakened Citizen Program, which gives the message of "I can", I feel that I can speak without being anxious about what other people think". [Translated from Hindi]
SKV, Ghitorni
V. Sangeetha IX-B