Nurturing Life Skills Through Summer Learning Posted on June 13, 2026June 14, 2026 by Divya Priya Previous Next The Our Responsibility to Children (ORC) team successfully conducted the Life Skill Education Summer Camp 2026 at the Vudhavikarangal Samuganala Thodar Kalvi Iyakkam Boys and Girls Home. The camp brought together 75 children (40 boys and 35 girls) in a vibrant and engaging learning environment designed to foster personal growth, emotional well-being, and social responsibility through activity-based learning.The summer camp focused on equipping children with essential life skills that will help them navigate everyday challenges with confidence and resilience. Through interactive games, group discussions, storytelling, role-play activities, and team exercises, participants explored a wide range of topics including self-care, effective communication, gratitude, problem-solving, time management, empathy, teamwork, decision-making, ecological responsibility, resilience, and the ability to take on challenges while standing up for oneself.The camp began with sessions on self-care, helping children understand the importance of maintaining their physical, emotional, and mental well-being through healthy habits and positive routines. This was followed by effective communication activities that encouraged students to express themselves clearly, listen actively, and build positive relationships with others. Previous Next A particularly impactful session focused on gratitude, where children reflected on the support they receive from friends, caregivers, and staff members. Many participants expressed appreciation and even offered apologies to those they had previously hurt, demonstrating a deeper understanding of kindness and empathy.Interactive sessions on problem-solving and time management encouraged children to think critically, make thoughtful decisions, and develop practical strategies for balancing their daily responsibilities. Through engaging challenges and games, students learned how effective planning and calm decision-making can contribute to personal success.One of the most meaningful components of the camp was the session on empathy, which encouraged children to understand and respect the emotions and experiences of others. Participants reflected deeply on how their actions affect those around them. One student shared that the activity helped them realize that everyone experiences pain differently and that respecting others’ feelings is essential for building positive relationships. Another participant reflected on how understanding the emotions of others helped them manage their own anger and behavior more thoughtfully.The camp also emphasized the importance of teamwork, where children learned the value of cooperation, communication, and working together toward common goals. Sessions on decision-making helped participants understand the consequences of their choices and encouraged responsible thinking in everyday situations.Recognizing the importance of environmental stewardship, the ORC team introduced activities on ecological responsibility, helping children understand how small actions such as conserving resources, maintaining cleanliness, and caring for nature can contribute to a healthier planet.Further sessions on resilience and taking on challenges while standing up for oneself empowered participants to face difficulties with courage and confidence. Through reflective discussions and practical activities, children learned that setbacks can be opportunities for growth and that self-belief is an important foundation for overcoming obstacles.The Life Skill Education Summer Camp 2026 provided a safe and supportive space where children could learn, reflect, and grow together. Beyond developing practical life skills, the camp fostered confidence, empathy, responsibility, and emotional strength—qualities that will continue to support participants in their academic journeys and personal lives. Through initiatives like these, the ORC program remains committed to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are equipped to thrive in an ever-changing world.
ORC – April Engagements in Schools, Training & Life Skills Programmes Posted on May 20, 2026May 20, 2026 by Divya Priya During April, the Our Responsibility to Children (ORC) programme carried out a series of structured interventions across schools, training centres, and community spaces, focusing on mental well-being, life skills development, academic support, and capacity building for both students and teachers. The sessions were designed to strengthen self-awareness, communication skills, leadership qualities, and emotional resilience among participants while reinforcing previously introduced concepts such as SMART-40. Previous Next A key highlight of April was the conduct of two one-day follow-up camps held at PKGBHSS, Muthialpet and GHS, Kombakkam. These camps collectively reached around 60 high school students, with active participation from both boys and girls. The sessions were facilitated by ORC team members and focused on revisiting earlier learning, strengthening conceptual clarity, and reinforcing life skills. Students engaged in discussions and activities centered around self-awareness, self-love, equality, time management, leadership, public speaking, critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving. A structured review of SMART-40 concepts was also conducted, along with motivational inputs, academic guidance, and discussions on the importance of education. The camps created an open and interactive environment where students confidently recalled previous learnings, clarified doubts, and participated actively in group discussions. Many students expressed that they found the sessions enjoyable, meaningful, and motivating, and showed interest in attending future programmes. Previous Next In addition to student-focused camps, April also included capacity-building programmes for educators. An IKMSS training session for class teachers was conducted at GHS, Kombakkam with 3 male and 1 female participant. The training helped teachers develop a clear understanding of the IKMSS framework and its purpose, while also improving their confidence in its implementation. The session further enhanced their awareness of student mental health concerns and strengthened their readiness to apply the process effectively in school settings. A Training of Trainers (ToT) programme was also conducted at Vuthavi Karangal Thodar Kalvi Iyakkam, Nonankuppam, with 18 participants (17 female and 1 male). The training focused on “Time Management,” aiming to equip participants with practical strategies for prioritization, planning, and productivity enhancement. Through interactive discussions and activities, participants identified common time-wasting patterns and explored effective solutions. The session was well received, with participants reporting improved clarity on time management concepts and greater confidence in organizing tasks efficiently. Previous Next Under life skills development initiatives, a “From Me to We” life skills training programme was conducted for bridge education students at Vinod Raina Study Centre, Manapet. Facilitated by Svarnim Puducherry interns along with ORC team members, the session engaged students in activities focused on teamwork, responsibility, self-awareness, equality, and time management. A total of students participated actively, showing high energy and enthusiasm throughout the programme. The experiential nature of the session helped students understand the importance of collective learning and personal responsibility in everyday life. Additionally, a mental health programme for college students from Tagore Arts and Science College was conducted at Vudhavikarangal Boys’ Home, Nonankuppam. The session focused on strengthening essential life skills such as self-awareness, decision-making, problem-solving, creative thinking, and emotional understanding. The interactive approach encouraged students to reflect on their personal experiences and develop better coping and thinking strategies.Alongside these programmes, ORC also conducted visits to six schools during April, including TVKGHS Arumparthapuram, Annai Sivagami GGHSS Mudaliarpet, GHS Kombakkam, GHS Kodathur, Kasthuriba Gandhi GGHSS Bahour, and PKGBHSS Muthialpet. These visits helped maintain continuity of engagement, strengthen school-level coordination, and support ongoing programme implementation.Overall, April reflected a strong and consistent engagement across multiple levels—students, teachers, and trainers—emphasizing experiential learning, mental well-being, and life skills development. The programmes collectively contributed to reinforcing confidence, improving awareness, and encouraging meaningful participation among all stakeholders.
Empowering Communities: Our Responsibility to Children February Highlights Posted on March 14, 2026March 14, 2026 by Divya Priya Community ProgramUnder the initiative “Our Responsibility to Children,” community engagement programs are conducted every year to create awareness and support the well-being of communities. Beginning in February 2026, a series of community programs were initiated for women associated with Anganwadi centers.Since February is widely recognized as Psychology Month, the sessions focused on themes related to mental health, emotional well-being, relationships, and personal development.During the month, four community programs were conducted with the participation of 137 women. 1. Enhancing Mental Health Among WomenPlace: Pookkara StreetParticipants: 55 WomenA community awareness program on “Enhancing Mental Health Among Women” was organized to promote emotional well-being and create awareness about mental health. The session discussed common challenges such as stress, emotional overload, and balancing multiple roles and responsibilities.Participants learned about self-care practices, stress management techniques, emotional expression, and the importance of seeking support when needed. Practical strategies such as relaxation techniques, positive thinking, time management, and building supportive relationships were explained in a simple and relatable manner.Interactive discussions allowed women to share their experiences and concerns openly. The session also addressed myths and stigmas associated with mental health and emphasized that seeking help is a sign of strength. The program successfully increased awareness and encouraged participants to adopt healthier practices for mental well-being. 2. Utilizing the Power of Humor to Burst Out from a Stressful LifePlace: Pavanar Nagar, BoomiyanpetParticipants: 15 Anganwadi StaffThis program focused on the role of humor and positivity in reducing stress and improving emotional well-being. The session began with an ice-breaking activity that encouraged participants to relax and engage with one another.Participants took part in fun activities such as singing, dancing, and group interaction, which created a joyful atmosphere. The session also discussed themes such as responsibility, equality, avoiding excessive stress, and practicing self-love.Self-love was highlighted as an important aspect of maintaining mental health, encouraging participants to treat themselves with kindness, set healthy boundaries, and prioritize their well-being. 3. Time to Laugh DayPlace: Pavanar Nagar, BoomiyanpetParticipants: 35 Anganwadi StaffA special program was organized to celebrate “Time to Laugh Day,” emphasizing laughter as a natural way to relieve stress and improve emotional health.The session included interactive activities, humor sharing, laughter exercises, and group participation games, which helped create a positive and energetic environment. The program highlighted how laughter can improve mood, strengthen social connections, and support overall mental well-being. 4. Breast Cancer Awareness ProgramPlace: Pookara Street Anganwadi – MuthialpetParticipants: 32 WomenA Breast Cancer Awareness Program was conducted to promote early detection and preventive healthcare among women.The session provided information about risk factors, warning signs, and screening methods such as Breast Self-Examination (BSE), Clinical Breast Examination, and Mammography. Participants were guided through a step-by-step explanation of breast self-examination, enabling them to regularly monitor their breast health.Preventive measures including maintaining a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, regular physical activity, and routine health check-ups were discussed. The session also addressed myths and misconceptions related to breast cancer through interactive discussions. Focused Intervention ProgramCapacity Building Training on Decision MakingPlace: Udhavi Karangal Samuga Nala Thondu Kalvi Iyakkam, NonankuppamParticipants: 24 MembersA Capacity Building Training Programme on Decision Making was conducted to strengthen participants’ ability to make informed, responsible, and confident decisions in their personal and social lives.The session used interactive learning methods to help participants understand structured decision-making processes and apply them in everyday situations.Outcome:The training enhanced awareness of effective decision-making skills and encouraged participants to apply these skills in education, relationships, and daily problem-solving. The program contributed to improving self-confidence and independence among participants.Individual CounsellingDuring the month, individual counselling sessions were conducted for 11 students (8 boys and 3 girls). Additionally, parental counselling was provided to 2 parents.SchoolTotalMaleFemaleGHS, Kodathur862GHS, Kombakkam220GHS, Kalmandapam101Parental Counselling2––These counselling sessions focused on academic concerns, emotional support, and guidance for personal development.
Nurturing Young Minds: ORC Mental Well-Being and Awareness Initiatives Posted on January 13, 2026January 13, 2026 by Divya Priya Previous Next World Mental Health Day CelebrationsContinuing the spirit of World Mental Health Day, ORC, in collaboration with Svarnim Puducherry and Sri Aurobindo Society, carried forward awareness initiatives into November and December across government schools. Competitions such as Creative Individual Poster Making, Slogan Writing, and Banner Painting on the theme “My Mental Health”encouraged students to express their understanding of emotional well-being.The final celebration was held at Kasthuriba Gandhi GGHSS, Bahour, where over 100 students participated enthusiastically. The event was led by the ORC team — Dr. P. R. Vinothkumar, Ms. M. Pavithra, Ms. K. Gunalakshmi, Mr. R. Ganesamoorthy, and Mrs. G. Devi — who recognized students’ efforts with appreciation and gifts. Previous Next General Awareness ProgrammesEast Coast Institute of Medical SciencesTopic: Empowering Young Minds and Building a Better FutureA total of 51 students (12 boys and 39 girls) participated in a session that focused on self-regulation, emotional awareness, self-reflection, and the importance of education. Students actively engaged through role-play and discussions, showing improved confidence, teamwork, and life skills awareness.SVRGHS, Maducarai – Career Guidance ProgrammeFor 53 boys, a structured guidance session helped students understand various career pathways, identify their strengths and interests, and explore educational routes for future professions. This initiative supported informed and confident decision-making among students.PM Shri MOHFMGGHSS, Kalapet – Resilience Building ProgrammeTopic: Unbreakable Spirit: Building Resilience in Young WomenConducted for 47 NSS girls, this program focused on interpersonal relationships, empathetic thinking, decision-making, critical thinking, communication, and educational values. Sessions were facilitated by Ms. Pavithra M., Mrs. Devi G., and Ms. K. Gunalakshmi, who guided students through reflective discussions. The school appreciated the sessions for their strong positive impact on students’ mindset and confidence. Individual Counselling SupportThis month, ORC provided individual counselling to 18 students (14 boys and 4 girls) and 1 parental counselling session across multiple schools including MAGHSS Embalam, GHS Kalmandapam, GHSS Karayambuthur, Annai Sivagami GGHSS Mudaliarpet, and PKGBHSS Muthialpet.Additionally, the team participated in a PTA Meeting at SVRGHS, Maducarai, engaging with 35 boys and 20 parentsto strengthen school-family support systems. Previous Next Water Literacy ProgrammeAs part of the Water Literacy initiative, a poster-making competition was conducted, followed by prize distribution in completed schools. Awareness reached multiple institutions including GHSS Karayambuthur, CGHS Abishegapakkam, ASNGHS Mudaliarpet, KGHSS Nettapakkam, Thiru.Vi.Ka GHS Arumparthapuram, PDGHS Pethuchettipet, GHS Kombakkam, GHS Kodathur, SVRGHS Maducarai, and PKGBHSS Muthialpet. Other Key ActivitiesThe ORC team also carried out regular school visits for counselling, permissions, coordination, and prize distributions across several government schools, continuing their mission of nurturing emotional well-being, resilience, and awareness among children.
Our Responsibility to Children (ORC): Promoting Mental Well-Being and Life Skills Posted on December 6, 2025December 6, 2025 by Divya Priya Previous Next Celebration on Mental Health Day We celebrate World Mental Health Day on October 10th to raise awareness about mental health issues, combat the stigma surrounding them, and advocate for better support and treatment worldwide. The day encourages open conversations about mental well-being and promotes the idea that mental health is as vital as physical health. In the continuation of World Mental Health Day, we celebrated in the month of November in the schools. No Health without Mental Health” In the month of November, Our Responsibility to Children (ORC—a positive mental health program), Svarnim Puducherry, and the Sri Aurobindo Society conducted the Creative Individual Poster Making, Valuable Slogan Writing, and Banner Painting competitions on the theme of “My Mental Health” in 9 government schools: PM Shri MOHFMGGHSS, Kalapet; ASNGHS, Mudaliarpet; CGHS, Abishegapakkam; Vallalar GGHSS, Lawspet; GHS, Kalmandapam; SVR GHS, Maducarai; Pandit Duraisamy GHS, Pethuchettipet; IAGHSS, Muthiraiyarpalayam; and TVKGHS, Arumparthapuram. More than 500 children enthusiastically participated in events. Running the month of November, team members Dr. P. R. Vinothkumar, Ms. M. Pavithra, Ms. K. Gunalakshmi, Mr. R. Ganesamoorthy, and Mrs. G. Devi from ORC, Svarnim Puducherry, happily recognize children’s efforts through providing gifts. Previous Next General Awareness on POCSO ActVenue : SCSVGHS, Veerampattinam and ASNGHS, Mudaliarpet:The general awareness program on the POCSO Act was conducted on 3rd November 2025 and 21st November 2025 at Sindhanai Chirpi Singaravellar Govt High School, Veerampattinam. The program was conducted by ORC team members and the head of the school. There are 39 boys from 9th and 10th standard and the ASNGHS, Mudaliarpet; there were 123 students, 86 boys and 37 girls from 9th and 10th standard. We taught the children about sex education and the POCSO Act. After the session the students are asked a question. And the team clarified the doubts. Outcome: An awareness program on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, was conducted to educate students about child safety and their legal rights. The session aimed to create awareness among the students about the various provisions of the Act and to emphasize the importance of reporting and preventing any form of abuse. Previous Next Career and GuidanceVenue : PM Shri MOHFMGGHSS, Kalapet and Kasthuriba Gandhi GGHSS, BahourFrom the school of PM Shri MOHFMGGHSS, Kalapet, 100 12th-standard students participated in the career and guidance session on 12th November 2025. The program was conducted by ORC team members Ms. K. Gunalakshmi and Ms. M. Pavithra, and sessions were taken. In the first session, Ms. K. Gunalakshmi took a session about the groups in the degrees. They learned after the 12th standard what the colleges in Pondicherry are and what the courses are after the 12th standard. Which group of students took which course in the bachelor’s degrees? Next, explain the difference between a job and a career. The second session was taken. Ms. M. Pavithra explained about the government exams and jobs in India and Pondicherry. Finally the students clarified their doubts. And at Kasthuriba Gandhi GGHSS, Bahour, there were 120 12th-standard students. The program was conducted by ORC team members Dr. P. R. Vinoth Kumar and Ms. M. Pavithra. Outcome: A career guidance program was organized with the objective of providing students with insights into various career opportunities and helping them make informed decisions about their future. The session aimed to guide students in identifying their interests, strengths, and aptitudes and to familiarize them with the educational pathways required for different professions. Previous Next Career and CounsellingVenue : PM Shri MOHFMGGHSS, Kalapet From the school of PM Shri MOHFMGGHSS, Kalapet, 88 11th-standard girl students participated in the Career and Counselling session on 17th November 2025. The program was conducted by ORC team members Ms. K. Gunalakshmi, Ms. M. Pavithra, and Mrs. G. Devi. The first session was conducted by Ms. M. Pavithra; she explained what mental health is and how important mental health and relationships are—healthy and unhealthy relationships. The second session was conducted by Ms. K. Gunalakshmi. She took a session about the importance of education, why we have to study, and how important it is. Outcome: The session covered topics such as healthy and unhealthy relationships and the importance of education. The students responded with a high level of interest and actively engaged with the discussion. Previous Next Smart-40 campIn November there are three Smart-40 camps. The schools are PKGBHSS, Muthialpet; GHS, Kombakkam; and Pandit Duraisamy GHS, Peththuchettipet. Overall, 114 students, 73 boys and 41 girls, are high school and higher school students. The camp was conducted by Our Responsibility to Children team members. They learned self-awareness, equality, and self-love and learned what beauty, unity and diversity, empathy and time management, leadership quality, adjustment and public speaking skills, critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving skills are. In the final session, they learned the importance of parents and teachers. Individual counsellingFor individual counselling, we met 37 students, 23 boys and 14 girls. S. NoSchoolOverall countMaleFemale1 MAGHSS, Embalam4402 GHS, Suthukeny6243 GHS, Santhaiputhukuppam6604 Vallalar GGHSS, Lawspet2025 TVKGHS, Arumparthapuram4406 PDGHS, Pethuchettipet3037 IAGHSS, Muthirapalayam4228 ASNGHS, Mudaliarpet4319 GHS, Kalmandapam422 Other ActivitiesSchool visits: IAGHSS Muthirapalayam, TVKGHS Arumparthapuram, ASNGHS, Mudaliarpet, TVGHS, Kathirkamam, Kamban GHSS Nettapakkam, GHSS Karayambuthur, and Kasthuriba GGHSS Bahour.Water literacy program: The water literacy program was conducted at ASNGHS, Mudaliarpet. There were 19 students who participated from 6th to 9th standard. We conducted an awareness session and a poster-making competition. The students are very actively participating. After that we distributed the prizes to the participating children.
Celebrating Mental Health and Self-Awareness Posted on November 9, 2025November 9, 2025 by Divya Priya Previous Next Every year on October 10th, the world observes World Mental Health Day to raise awareness about mental health issues, challenge the stigma surrounding them, and promote open dialogue about emotional well-being. This day serves as a reminder that mental health is as vital as physical health, encouraging individuals and communities to support one another with empathy and understanding.As part of the celebration, the Our Responsibility to Children (ORC) programme conducted a special session at the East Coast Institute of Medical Sciences – College of Nursing. The programme brought together 60 young nursing students, who are preparing to serve as future healthcare professionals, for an engaging and insightful session on self-awareness, self-love, communication, interpersonal relationships, and teamwork. The session was led by ORC team members who shared practical tools and reflections to help participants care for themselves while learning to connect compassionately with others. Previous Next Highlights of the SessionThe day’s activities were structured around interactive modules that combined learning with creative participation:Self-Awareness (Random Walk):Students explored awareness at physical, mental, and emotional levels, learning how to recognize equality, handle distractions, and respond thoughtfully in challenging situations.Self-Love (Chart Activity – “What is Beauty?”):Through discussions and visual exercises, participants reflected on myths and facts surrounding beauty, the influence of social media, and self-perception before and after adolescence. The session encouraged self-compassion and discouraged self-comparison.Communication (Connecting through Barriers):Activities focused on improving verbal and non-verbal communication, active listening, and using empathetic and respectful language, with attention to how digital platforms shape communication habits.Interpersonal Relationships (Touch Your Friend):Students engaged in a calm reflective exercise to understand emotional boundaries, personal space, empathy, and the importance of mutual respect. The session helped them embrace self-acceptance, reduce feelings of inferiority, and strengthen their ability to work collaboratively.Teamwork (Fantasy Football):A fun yet insightful activity promoting critical thinking, decision-making, and group coordination through team-based problem-solving.Positive Gossiping (Poster Making):The day concluded with a creative poster-making session centered on mental health awareness, coping techniques, building support systems, and prioritizing self-care.Outcomes and Counselling SupportThrough these activities, students gained greater understanding of self-awareness, self-love, effective communication, interpersonal relationships, teamwork, and decision-making. In addition, 15 students (14 boys and 1 girl) received individual counselling sessions, offering them personal guidance and emotional support in a safe, confidential space. The ORC team also participated in the Unity Day celebration at the college, serving as judges for a drawing and debate competition on the theme “Bringing the Future Together.” Invitations were also distributed to extend the Mental Health Day celebrations to schools across Puducherry, amplifying awareness within the larger educational community.Through these efforts, the ORC programme continues to advocate for holistic mental well-being—helping young people build emotional resilience, nurture compassion, and carry forward the message that caring for the mind is integral to caring for life itself.
Empowering Young Minds through Life Skills and Mental Health Education Posted on October 13, 2025October 13, 2025 by Divya Priya September 2025 was a month of learning, reflection, and growth under the Our Responsibility to Children (ORC)initiative. Through life skill training, awareness programs, workshops, and counselling support, the team continued to reach students, educators, and youth across Puducherry and beyond—strengthening emotional intelligence, decision-making, and resilience among young learners. Previous Next Smart-40 Life Skills CampsFour Smart-40 camps were organized this month at GHS Santhaipudhukuppam, GHSS Karayambuthur, ASNGHS Mudhaliarpet, and Perunthalaivar Kamarajar GBHSS, Muthialpet, engaging 193 students (130 boys and 63 girls).The sessions focused on self-awareness, stress management, time management, communication, leadership, and teamwork.Students participated enthusiastically in creative group activities, mindfulness sessions, and discussions designed to help them recognize their strengths and manage daily challenges with confidence. Many shared that the camp improved their ability to make informed decisions and handle peer pressure effectively. Follow-Up CampA one-day Follow-Up Camp at GHSS Karayambuthur brought together 32 higher secondary students to revisit key lessons from their Smart-40 experience.Through engaging activities, students learned about decision-making, creative problem-solving, balancing exam stress, and the importance of education.A Drug Awareness session was also conducted to build awareness about substance use and its impact on mental and physical health. The participants expressed gratitude for the sessions, noting that it strengthened their emotional control, time management, and social behavior. Previous Next General Awareness on Mental HealthTwo general awareness programs on mental health and personal growth were conducted this month at:SCSVGHS, Veerampattinam, reaching 70 students (35 boys and 35 girls)Vinayaka Mission College of Nursing (VMCON), Kirumampakkam, Bahour, with 105 studentsThe sessions emphasized the importance of education, career guidance, emotional well-being, respect for others, and positive social behavior.At VMCON, the session titled “Igniting Young Minds” inspired nursing students to grow into compassionate leaders and change-makers of tomorrow. Previous Next Youth Life Skill Training A three-day Life Skill and Mental Health Training was held at Mothilal Nehru Government Polytechnic College, Lawspet, engaging 60 male students.Interactive sessions covered gender sensitization, drug awareness, the POCSO Act, teamwork, mindfulness, and emotional regulation.Students actively participated in reflective exercises that strengthened their decision-making, problem-solving, and communication skills. The camp helped nurture self-discipline, empathy, and emotional balance—key foundations for personal and professional growth. Previous Next Workshop on Human ValuesA one-day workshop on Human Values was conducted at Sir Issac Newton College of Nursing, Nagapattinam, with 84 nursing students participating.The workshop emphasized compassion, integrity, and respect, showing how strong human values are essential not only for professional excellence but also for creating empathetic and socially responsible healthcare workers. Previous Next National Conference ParticipationOn September 25–26, 2025, Dr. P. R. Vinoth Kumar and Dr. F. Jayachandran represented ORC at the National Conference on “Opportunities in Social Work for a Sustainable Future” held at the Madurai Institute of Social Sciences.They presented two research papers highlighting the role of psychosocial interventions and educational programs in promoting child and youth well-being. Counselling SupportTo provide personalized guidance, the ORC team conducted 19 individual counselling sessions during the month—14 boys and 5 girls—addressing issues such as academic stress, emotional health, and interpersonal relationships.These sessions continue to be a safe space for children to express themselves and receive professional support tailored to their needs. Looking AheadFrom strengthening emotional intelligence in schools to empowering youth through value-based education, ORC’s September programs reaffirmed the power of continuous engagement in shaping balanced, confident, and compassionate individuals.Each session, camp, and conversation is a step toward nurturing a generation that is mentally strong, socially responsible, and ready to lead with empathy.
Empowering Youth and Educators: ORC Impact – August 2025 Posted on September 22, 2025September 22, 2025 by Divya Priya Previous Next The Our Responsibility to Children (ORC) program continued its impactful work in August 2025, engaging students, teachers, and youth through initiatives aimed at promoting mental well-being, life skills, and youth leadership. Individual counselling sessions provided students with personalized support, helping them develop coping strategies, boost confidence, and navigate academic or personal challenges. These sessions reached 20 students, ensuring that each participant received guidance tailored to their unique needs. Teachers participated in training programs designed to enhance their skills in supporting student mental health and well-being. These sessions equipped educators with practical strategies to foster supportive classroom environments, recognize student needs, and engage effectively. A total of 14 teachers benefited from these trainings. Awareness programs focused on mental health, child protection, substance abuse, and the POCSO Act. Through interactive discussions, students and faculty learned about creating safe spaces and empowering their communities. These programs reached 164 students and faculty members. Youth Day celebrations offered opportunities for students to engage in discussions, interactive activities, and debateson sustainable development, climate action, and youth leadership. Participants were encouraged to think critically, communicate effectively, and take initiative in addressing social and environmental challenges. These events reached 280 students and faculty members. The Smart-40 camp focused on life skills development, goal setting, time management, teamwork, and confidence building. Activities were designed to improve study habits, motivation, and personal discipline. A total of 54 studentsbenefited from the camp. Follow-up sessions reinforced the concepts learned in the Smart-40 camp, providing additional guidance on exam preparation, stress management, and personal growth. These sessions reached 24 students, helping them reflect on their learning, clarify doubts, and develop strategies for academic and personal success. Regular school visits ensured continuous engagement with students, allowing ORC to assess progress, provide support, and sustain the impact of its programs. In total, ORC reached 556 beneficiaries during August 2025, including students, teachers, and faculty. Through these initiatives, ORC continues to empower students, strengthen teacher capabilities, and foster youth leadership, creating a supportive ecosystem for holistic development.
ORC July 2025 – Strengthening Minds, Building Communities Posted on August 12, 2025August 18, 2025 by Divya Priya July 2025 was a month of meaningful engagement and far-reaching impact for the Our Responsibility to Children (ORC)program. Through a blend of teacher training, student life skills camps, counselling, and outreach initiatives, the team worked tirelessly to strengthen the emotional resilience of children, while also building awareness and capacity within their surrounding ecosystems—teachers, parents, and community members. Previous Next IKMSS Teacher TrainingSix I Know My Student Solution Card (IKMSS) orientation programs were conducted this month, reaching 62 government school teachers from various regions of Puducherry. These sessions served as a vital platform to introduce educators to the core principles of ORC, with a special focus on identifying and addressing common behavioral and psychological challenges in students. Teachers were equipped with practical strategies to create supportive classroom environments, strengthen student-teacher relationships, and work collaboratively with parents and peers to address students’ needs. This teacher empowerment effort is crucial, as educators are the first point of contact for many children in distress. Previous Next Smart 40 Life Skills CampsJuly saw the successful execution of four Smart-40 Life Skills Camps, with an impressive participation of 204 students (both boys and girls). The camps were designed as immersive, activity-based learning experiences aimed at nurturing key life skills such as leadership, decision-making, problem-solving, teamwork, and emotional intelligence. By engaging students in role-play, group challenges, and reflective discussions, the camps encouraged them to see themselves as active change-makers in their schools and communities. The program also emphasized the importance of empathy, self-confidence, and resilience—qualities that help children navigate both academic pressures and personal challenges. Previous Next Follow-Up CampsFour follow-up sessions were held in different schools, benefiting 147 students. These sessions served as a bridge between past Smart-40 training and the students’ current realities. They provided an open space for children to revisit key concepts, share their personal experiences, and support one another through peer learning. Facilitators also used this opportunity to reinforce emotional well-being strategies, address ongoing concerns, and remind students of the value of self-awareness and self-care. Counselling SupportORC’s dedicated counselling team continued to provide direct mental health support. This month, they conducted 10 individual counselling sessions for students dealing with emotional, behavioral, or academic challenges, one parental counselling session to guide guardians in supporting their children, and one community counselling session to extend mental wellness awareness beyond school boundaries. The counselling efforts aimed not just at problem-solving, but also at empowering individuals to develop coping mechanisms, build confidence, and make healthier life choices. Previous Next Outreach ProgramsAt Vinayaga Mission Nursing College, 143 nursing students took part in an interactive session on youth mental health. The program addressed issues such as stress management, emotional awareness, and the importance of seeking help when needed—equipping future healthcare professionals to care for their own mental well-being while supporting others.At KGHSS Nettapakkam, ORC participated in a large Parents Teachers Meeting (PTM), engaging with over 250 participants. This platform allowed for meaningful conversations about the role of parents in their children’s emotional and academic growth, while also strengthening parent-school partnerships for the holistic development of students. Looking AheadJuly’s work stands as a testament to ORC’s belief that children thrive best in supportive environments that nurture their emotional, social, and intellectual growth. By empowering teachers, guiding students, counselling families, and engaging communities, ORC is creating a ripple effect—ensuring that every child feels seen, supported, and capable of achieving their potential.