Jamshedpur: To teach is to touch a life forever. Students of XLRI are touching many.
Social Initiative Group for Managerial Assistance or SIGMA, a campaign run by the B-school students to catalyse growth among individuals, has launched its basic computer learning programme (BCLP) for underprivileged children of ADLS High School in Kadma this year.
Around 40 students of Class VIII who never had access to computers or have its basic understanding are participating in the 10-week course, which is into its tenth edition.
The first classes were held by first-year management students on Sunday on the XLRI campus in CH Area. The children of ADLS will have to visit XLRI for nine more Sundays.
"Technology has become an important part of our lives. Our programme will provide a foundation to those who want to learn more about computers in the future," said Utkarsh Aren, a SIGMA member.
The programme offers a combination of theoretical and practical classes, covering a wide array of topics like computer hardware, MS Office (Word and Excel) and basic Internet use.
The first module covered the evolution of computers, their applications, computer parts and their functions. The ADLS boys and girls received a hands-on experience in using desktops too. The sessions are made engaging through interaction and fun. For added motivation, the participants will also receive certificates from SIGMA.
The XLRI initiative was founded in 2002 to work towards social causes in and around Jamshedpur. The 10-member team often works in collaboration with nonprofits to make lives better. Among other programmes, SIGMA organises blood and stem cell donation camps, paper recycling campaigns and legal literacy drives.
Eighth grader Aman Kumar, one of the beneficiaries, said since he knew how to handle smartphones, he found the lessons engaging. "I feel privileged for being chosen for the course. It is fun learning with the bhaiyas and didis who explain things very well. The certificate I will receive here will be a trophy possession,"the 13-year-old said.
