“When I first started teaching my class, the students were focused on individual success—’I’ll do this’ or ‘I’ll go first’ was their common approach. Over time, through group activities like rakhi-making, a transformation began. Older students started helping younger ones, guiding them step-by-step and ensuring they completed their work before focusing on their own.

This spirit of teamwork spread to other areas. During stories or games, the older children would step back, saying, ‘Let the younger ones go first, teacher.’ Boys began giving girls priority and playing carefully to avoid hurting anyone.

Now, the students understand that success isn’t just about ‘me’—it’s about ‘us.’ They’ve embraced collaboration and take pride in helping their entire group succeed. Watching them grow into empathetic and responsible individuals has been a truly rewarding journey.”*