As many as 96 children from economically disadvantaged areas of the city are being treated to a free three-day residential summer camp by the non-governmental organisation People’s Development Initiatives.
The annual camp, in its tenth year, is being held on the campus of the TELC Middle School in Kelms Town and was inaugurated on Thursday.
“The aim of this event is to give these children, many of whom are working in cottage industries, and attend night schools, the opportunity to enjoy and learn something new during the summer break, just like children from privileged backgrounds,” said Dr. Ila. Ambalavanan, Project Director, PDI.
Activities lined up for the camp include yoga sessions, clay modelling, embroidery lessons for girls, and craft for boys, besides drawing and handwriting classes.
N. Saminathan, District Differently Abled Welfare Officer, who presided, asked the youths to make good use of their holidays.
“A summer camp is a good way to learn a new skill, that could help you later in life,” he said.
He advised the children to source study material for the next academic year, to avoid a last minute rush.
S. Kamaraj, civil surgeon, Government ESI Hospital, Tiruchi, lauded the organisers for the initiative, and urged the youths to make full use of the craft courses and leisure activities.
“You must take every opportunity to participate in such camps to learn new skills and discover your talents,” he said.
“Students need to be accomplished not just in academics but also in extracurricular activities. You must take care of your health by avoiding junk food and pre-packaged snacks, because sickness can affect your school attendance,” he added.
Secondary and Higher Secondary schoolchildren, who had scored 800 and above in the board examinations (through the supplementary stream), were felicitated with trophies at the conclusion of the ceremony.
People’s Development Initiatives, a voluntary group of doctors, social workers, academics, and researchers, had been working in 20 slums of the city since 1998. The camp includes free meals and segregated hostel accommodation.