The challenges - 5 May 2016 (Sunday)

It was almost my second visit. As usual Volunteers arrived one by one much later than the planned time of 11 am. We almost started our session around 1 pm. Had to talk to them about the importance of discipline and punctuality in great length. And also about Sankalp (resolution). When I gave the example of Arunima Sinha for her determination and courage it gave an impression that Volunteers really felt inspired.

The challenges discussed for this visit included:

1. Many VTs did not have Books

2. Learners were finding it difficult to write on Book and were requesting for Slates

3. TV is a big hindrance

4. Many illiterates are not cooperating at all etc.

Spoke to Mr.Srinivas Babu for books which he promised to arrange in the next few days. For slates, Sarpanch told me that some gentleman was about to donate a few slates. And regarding TV, Sarpanch spoke to the cable operator to stop telecasting any of the channels during 7.30 to 8.30 slot daily evening.

For the cooperation of illiterates, as a first strategy, I planned to design flexs and banners with the real photographs of the illiterates while learning etc. With banners everywhere the hope was that the illiterates who are not willing to learn might feel left out and start learning. Sarpanch promised to call the photographer and have some snaps taken.

Later updated the excel with all the volunteer vs illiterates with the help of Meenakshi. That day I had met the other VC, Jyoti, who was supposed to work along with Meenakshi. I tried to convince her resume her work and she agreed to cooperate.

On both the occasions, that is last Sunday and this Sunday, I had to stay till evening but without food as there was no hotel in the village. Decided to carry my own lunch box for my next visits. :)