Khoj addresses mental health and educational disparities in marginalized communities, driven by the urgent need highlighted by grim pre-COVID mental health scenarios which were only exacerbated by the pandemic. It integrates social and emotional learning into education to fill resource gaps, foster essential competencies and empower students for lifelong well-being and harmony.
In practice, Khoj embodies the following key design principles:
- Wellbeing-centered education: Prioritizing social and emotional development, daily SEL spaces and counseling support are integrated into the academic curriculum.
- Proximate and Intentional Leadership: Led by Sangeeta Zombade, who shares the community's background, leadership is community-guided, integrating lived realities with expertise.
- Community Development: Supporting caregivers and fostering partnerships, Khoj maintains a highly engaged School Management Committee. Our efforts have been recognized globally since we were shortlisted among the top 10 schools for the World’s Best School Prize for Community Collaboration in 2022.
- Data-Driven Instructions and Experiential Pedagogy: Instructional design is data-driven, providing differentiated instructions through diverse modalities like art and technology.
Reach and Achievements:
- Expanded to serve over 270 students in Mumbai's Govandi, Mankhurd, and Chembur areas.
- Recognized in the top 10 schools for World's Best School Prizes for Community Collaboration in 2022.
- Received Gold Certification from Guidestar India for three consecutive years (2018-19 onwards).
- Featured in national and international publications and podcasts, increasing visibility.
Our goals for the next 2-3 Years:
- Extend reach to more low-income communities in Mumbai and beyond.
- Strengthen partnerships with educational and mental health organizations.
- Advocate for SEL interventions at the policy level.
- Continue to innovate and adapt SEL practices for evolving educational landscapes.
1. Connect with Apni Shala: Visit our website or contact us directly.
2. Collaborative Consultation: Engage with Apni Shala to understand your context and needs.
3. Customized Implementation: Tailor and pilot our initiative for your community or school.
4. Training & Support: Get comprehensive training and ongoing support.
5. Measure Impact: Assess the initiative's impact through evaluations.
