MYP 4 students discuss Volunteerism

As an extension to the unit on Volunteerism, the students got to interact with a group of volunteers from the organization called Nireekshana ACET, which works to empower the HIV affected and infected women and children in Hyderabad. Dr. Sheetal, an active worker of this organization interacted with the students sharing her experience and what motivated her to be a volunteer.

Firstly, she briefed the students about the historical background of volunteerism and various types of voluntary organisations. Following this, she shared her thoughts on how volunteerism is becoming an act of helping others and at the same time an act of helping oneself in terms of achieving emotional and personal growth and balance. She was assisted by Akansha, a young college student and a volunteer, who also assists her in various volunteering activities. Akansha connected the act of volunteering to reach a “helpers high” (an experience of achieving high level of satisfaction by helping others).

The students also interacted with Mellani who works with My Choice, an organization that works for the betterment of the Leprosy-affected people. Mellani, from USA, was taken care of by a US voluntary organisation from a very young age.This led her to dedicate herself to volunteering.

The session ended with interaction between the volunteers and students, which was enriching. The students also shared their experiences of volunteering done in school and outside.

Submitted by Suresh Madhavan and Kanchan Misra

Humanities Teachers MYP 4