Service Learning & Social Outreach at GDGWS
Service learning and community engagement lie at the very core of the GD Goenka World School experience. These transformative initiatives not only imbue our curriculum with deeper meaning but also directly address pressing community needs. In our rapidly evolving world, it is imperative to equip our students with the skills to navigate intricate ethical and social challenges. The focal point is no longer simply "can we," but rather, "should we." Our students are not only encouraged but empowered to contemplate essential values such as justice, equity, the sanctity of life, and the fundamental tenets of human rights. Service learning endeavours to awaken within them a profound sense of responsibility, echoing the timeless wisdom of Mahatma Gandhi: "Be the change that you wish to see in the world. Here are some of our notable initiatives:- 1. Tree Plantation Drive:Collaborating with the Bhagat Singh Foundation, our Grade 12 boarders orchestrated a Tree Plantation Drive, a vital component of the GO GREEN Project.
- 2. No Plastic Glasses Drive:We championed environmental responsibility through our "No Plastic Glasses Drive," a campaign that actively promoted waste reduction within the school community.
- 3. Labor Day Celebration:In honour of World Labor Day, our IBDP students expressed gratitude towards our support staff by presenting them with chocolates and heartfelt handmade cards.
- 4. UNDP Partnership:: In conjunction with UNDP, our students assembled emergency medical kits for a Sikkim village struck by a natural calamity, extending a helping hand to those in dire need.
- Book 5. Book Collection Drive:A dedicated group of students initiated a "Book Collection Drive" in collaboration with Adaa, generously donating over 400 books to this NGO.
- 6. Kartavya Project: Our Interact Club gathered sanitary pads for rural women, benefitting The Earth Saviors Foundation and promoting an essential cause.
- 7. Scream No: Grade XI students took the initiative to educate their peers on child safety, "stranger danger," and self-defence, fostering a safer environment for all.
- 8. Neev Foundation:We joined forces with underprivileged students, providing training for a musical production that highlights the importance of girl education and women empowerment.
- 9. Fairtrade: We embraced the Fairtrade movement, championing responsible consumption and production, and promoting ethical practices.
- 10. Sports Day for the Underprivileged: Our Interact Club organised a sports day for underprivileged children, promoting physical fitness and inclusivity.
- Great Ganga Run:Our students participated in the Great Ganga Run, dedicating their efforts to raising awareness about environmental conservation and preservation.
- 12. Anti-Pollution Masks: Our compassionate students collected and donated anti-pollution masks to underprivileged schools, enhancing the health and well-being of young learners.
- 13. Diwali Fundraiser: To spread the joy of Diwali, students organised a fundraiser, with the proceeds benefiting underprivileged schools and enhancing their educational opportunities.
- 14.Project "Tip of the Pen": Spearheaded by our Grade 11 students, this initiative focuses on providing underprivileged children with essential school supplies, ensuring they have the tools they need for a brighter future.
- 15.Project Polymer on World Environment Day: Launched by our Grade 12 students on World Environment Day (June 5, 2023), "Project Polymer" collects used plastic milk packets to promote sustainability and prevent environmental damage caused by improper disposal. These packets are sent to Avacayam, an NGO that transforms them into reusable bags and other eco-friendly products.
- 16. Ann Daan - Food Collection Drive: Inspired by previous IB generations, GD Goenka World School students collected 380 kg of non-perishable food items, including rice, lentils, flour, and more. These donations were sent to UNWFP (United Nations World Food Program) to support their mission of distributing food to those in need.
- 17. CAS Diwali Donation Drive: Our IBDP students initiated a drive to support The Earth Saviours Foundation (T.E.S.F.), a non-profit organisation. They aimed to improve the lives of approximately 550 residents at the foundation's rescue centre, including individuals with physical and psychological challenges.
- 18.CAS Trip to Jim Corbett: In March 2023, the Grade 12 IB students embarked on an educational excursion to Jim Corbett, a three-day journey focused on experiential learning, character development, and sustainability.
- 19. Indo-Bangla Cultural Exchange Programme CAS: This cross-cultural project, which took place on January 19, 2022, brought together Indian and Bangladeshi students to celebrate and exchange diverse cultures and traditions, emphasising the importance of cultural exchange and understanding in our globalised world.