Zahera Begum, who recently cleared her class XII examination standing first in the Chennai Girls Higher Secondary School, Saidapet, does not remember reading any book, barring the ones that form part of her academic curriculum. “If given a chance, I want to read about [former President] A.P.J Abdul Kalam,” she says quietly.
And her wish might soon come true, under an initiative of Indian Overseas Bank in association with British Council, which aims to make the world of reading accessible to different sections of the society.
A memorandum of understanding was signed between top officials of both the institutions here on Saturday under which the British Council library membership facilities would be extended to 100 students such as Zahera – students who hold the first three ranks in different Chennai Schools. The corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative of IOB has been initiated as part of its 75th year celebration.
While the bank would sponsor one year's library membership for the students, British Council would hold inspirational workshops for these children, and train them in inter-personal skills and communication throughout the year. This would de-mystify places such as libraries in the minds of these students, and help create an inclusive learning environment, said British Council Deputy Director Kartar Singh.
“The infrastructure in India might not be enough to provide education on all fronts under a single roof. Initiatives such as this will help children learn beyond books, and be confident,” said A. K. Bansal, Executive Director, IOB.
Deputy General Manager, IOB, S. H. Keshava and British Council (South India) director Paul Sellers and Regional Director (South Asia) Stephan Roman participated in the event
