A batch of former students of a school has contributed more than Rs 2 lakh for the tuition fee of girls for one academic year in their alma mater.
The batch of 1984-86 of Assembly of God Church School, Park Street, some of whom needed a helping hand during their school life, decided to come forward for the girls whose parents are struggling to pay the fees during the pandemic.
The project — Bring Smile to a Girl Child — is a joint initiative of The Assembly of God Church School, Park Street, and AG Buddies Batch of 1984-86.
Five girls from the middle and senior school have been selected by the school.
“We wanted to give back to the school and had raised funds for it. During the pandemic we thought what better way than to utilise this when several parents are having a tough time,” said Peter
Probal Kumar Mitter, from the 84-86 batch.
A programme was held in the school on Friday. Ivan Satyavrata, the chairman and administrator of the school, gave the inaugural speech.
“We told the parents that we are not doing any charity. We feel they are part of the family and because we have some extra we are giving it to them now so that they do not give up,” added Mitter.
The alumni are contributing 73 per cent and the rest is to be borne by the parents.
“We also want parents to contribute because they need to value what they are getting...,” said principal Lionel Chellappa. “It has ignited the process of giving and other batches have expressed their desire to contribute.”
A few of the alumni received scholarships from the school during their student life. “Perhaps I would not have been able to complete my education had it not been for the scholarship that I received for six-odd years,” said an alumnus, who is now the regional sales head of a company.
