16-year-old Anant provides free tutors to underprivileged kids, attracts Vietnam

By Divya Chopra: Anant Bagrodia, a 16-year-old determined student from Vasant Valley School in New Delhi, has a burning passion for Machine Learning and Data Science. He sees technology as a powerful tool to address the pressing issues faced by our society. But little did he know that his skills and compassion would lead him on a remarkable journey, igniting hope and opportunities for underprivileged school students.

THE DARK CLOUD OF INEQUITY

When the pandemic swept across the world, it brought with it a storm that left many children adrift in its wake. Countless young souls attending government schools found themselves without the means to access online education.

Shockingly, only 8.1 percent of government school children attended online classes, creating an alarming educational gap that only worsened with time. When in-person school resumed, these children faced an uphill battle to catch up, needing extra support to bridge the knowledge gap.

AN EYE OPENER

Amid this turmoil, a glimmer of hope shone through the actions of Anant's mother. She selflessly volunteered her time, dedicating hours to tutoring underprivileged children in MCD schools. One young heart, Prince, captured her attention, a bright spark yearning for guidance and support.

As Anant tutored the young Prince during the pandemic, he witnessed the stark reality firsthand. Prince struggled with even the most basic concepts of math and English.

This opened Anant's eyes to the thousands of children facing similar challenges, with parents unable to afford tuition classes due to financial constraints.

AN APP FOR CHANGE

Witnessing Prince's progress, Anant realized there were countless children like him in need of urgent support. The problem was, their parents couldn't afford tuition classes. This realisation sparked a sense of responsibility in Anant to help these underprivileged kids and give back to society.

"With my privileged upbringing, I realised that there are many children who are not as fortunate as me. I felt it was my duty to help these underprivileged children and give back to society. Thus, I decided to create a platform to link students in need of support, with willing volunteers," said Anant Bagrodia.

To make a difference, Anant came up with a solution - a mobile app called 'Volunteer for MCD Schools.' The app connects students who want to volunteer with schools in need of support. It streamlined the process, making it easier for volunteers to get involved.

The app bridges the gap between students seeking volunteer opportunities, and those who require but cannot access academic support. It is available on the Google Play Store.

The app quickly gained positive feedback, attracting over 120 student volunteers. Anant partnered with MCD, enabling students to volunteer at 19 schools.

A BEACON OF LIGHT

"Almost immediately, I received positive feedback from student volunteers and schools too. I continue to regularly visit various schools to spread awareness about my app and encourage their students to volunteer," he adds.

One student volunteer expressed, "This programme has been an enriching experience for me. Teaching chess at the MCD schools has become a highlight of my week, something I eagerly anticipate. The children's curiosity and growing interest towards learning chess have been truly fulfilling and personally rewarding."

WHAT OTHER THAN ACADEMICS?

Through the platform, students imparted not only academic knowledge but also their talents in music, dance, sports, and more. Anant's initiative brought smiles and laughter to MCD schools as volunteers shared their passions with enthusiastic children.

ENTRY INTO PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Moving beyond the individual level, he has also had the private schools he partners with facilitate group sessions, wherein they take a group of their students as volunteers to an MCD school for longer sessions.

He is also distributing certificates to volunteers for every 5 hours of volunteer service, to incentivise them to further participate and contribute.

DISTRIBUTION OF TABLETS

But Anant's quest did not end there. Recently, he held a heartfelt fundraiser and donated 30 tablets to students in three MCD schools, ensuring that no child missed out on the experience of digital education.

ANANT'S APP ATTRACTS VIETNAM

In a heartening turn of events, a recent contact from Vietnam has presented an exciting opportunity for Anant.

"Someone has recently contacted me from Vietnam, to help set up and develop a similar platform in Vietnam. I will work on that and partner with them, so hopefully more and more underprivileged children from around the world will benefit."

A FUTURE FUELED BY COMPASSION

Anant Bagrodia's journey is a testament to the power of one individual's compassion and determination to create lasting change.

Through his app, he sowed the seeds of hope and opportunity, lighting up the lives of underprivileged children. His story serves as an inspiring reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can transform lives and pave the way for a brighter and more equitable future for all.