Slum Children-Youth Groups Demonstrate Zest, Collective Confidence and Tenacity to Improve Access to Education and Self-development Opportunities

Slum children/youth are excluded from the benefits of India’s urbanizing economy. Unequal access to education, self-expression hinder actualizing their potential. This programme research is undertaken in Indore, India to better understand the methods through which slum children (a) overcome gender inequality; (b) overcome hesitation, develop confidence and skills and (c) access government scholarships. Information was collected through Focus Group Discussions with slum children and youth, individual interviews and participant observation during activities. The Urban Health Resource Center (UHRC) organizes slum children’s groups in Indore. One boy, one girl leaders per group contribute to a more gender-equitable society. They collectively identify needs for stimulation; ways to enhance confidence, strengthen as groups, contribute to evolution of programme and motivate children in neighbouring slums. Extra-curricular activities by UHRC provide platforms for self-expression (such as street plays), develop teamwork and leadership skills and build self-confidence, zest and tenacity to overcome odds. Children and UHRC’s social facilitators urge ward councillors to endorse hand-written applications for income certificates, obtain certificates from District Magistrate’s office; submit to schools to access Government scholarship. Child/youth development is fostered through avenues for self-expression, excelling incrementally and cultivating positive self-image. Communication and leadership skills emerge. Children/youth groups’ petitions/requests to Municipal Corporation have improved slum lanes, drains. Interruption of children’s school education has reduced. Social interactions help children/youth to overcome hesitation, focus on aspirations and acquire ability to influence circumstances. Increasing number of youth completes schooling, complements family income; demonstrates gender sensitivity; undertakes socially productive community actions, e.g. improving hygiene and living environment, reduce school-dropout.