Sarada Coaching Classes
(Education to the Underprivileged)
“Education is the manifestation of the perfection already in man”
-Swami Vivekananda
Swami Vivekananda’s Vision in Action: Education for All
Education of the masses, especially from impoverished backward sections of the society, has been a cardinal service of the Ramakrishna Mission since its inception. The idea of education as expressed by Swami Vivekananda, that laid the foundation for the numerous educational institutions commenced by Ramakrishna Math & Ramakrishna Mission, has as its core, elements – discipline, focus, rigour, personality development, character building, patriotism, selflessness, humanism, and idealism. Education with such ideals is not restricted to formal schools and colleges only, but all allied education units like Samskar Varga, Balaka Sangha, Personality Development Seminars, Youth Conventions, Tuition Classes, Libraries, Reading / Study rooms too adopt similar approach by striving towards excellence.
The Ramakrishna Mission has long upheld the ideal of educating the masses, particularly the underprivileged. Guided by Swami Vivekananda’s vision, our approach to education emphasizes discipline, focus, character building, patriotism, selflessness, and humanism. These values are integrated not only in formal academic settings but also in initiatives like Samskar Varga, Youth Conventions, and Reading Rooms, aiming to develop the whole personality.
As part of the 150th Birth Anniversary Celebrations of Swami Vivekananda (2012–2014), several impactful initiatives were launched. One such initiative, Sarada Coaching Classes, was started in 2014 at the Swami Vivekananda Hall, Khar, under the guidance of Swami Sarvalokanandaji and leadership of Swami Ganeshatmananda (Ritesh Maharaj). It began with the aim to uplift students from slum and economically backward backgrounds through free academic coaching.
Sarada Coaching Classes started on 1st July 2014 with just 25 students from standards 6th to 8th under the State Education Board. They received assistance in English, Marathi, Mathematics, and Science. Thanks to the support of dedicated devotees and volunteers, basic learning resources like textbooks, blackboards, and nutritious snacks were arranged.
Many students face complex challenges at home – from financial instability, domestic abuse, and alcoholism to the responsibilities of caring for younger siblings. These socio-economic hurdles affect their regular attendance and academic performance. The dedication of volunteer teachers and mentors ensures that these students get consistent academic and emotional support.
Understanding the emotional toll on these children, counsellor Shri Gautam Narang now regularly engages with students to help them manage stress, anxiety, and distractions. This has led to significant improvement in their emotional well-being and confidence levels.
Beyond academics, Sarada Coaching Classes has grown into a multidimensional developmental program. The curriculum now includes:
- Music & Painting
- Yoga & Physical Wellness
- Moral Education & Storytelling
- Annual Picnics & Cultural Events
Students are offered nutritious snacks daily, and every effort is made to promote their all-round development in a safe, nurturing environment.
The impact is evident. Snehal Jadhav scored 94% in the SSC Board Exam in 2018. In the following years (2019–2021), several students achieved distinctions in Science and Mathematics, proving the effectiveness of the initiative.
“I have noticed a positive change in our students as they attend Sarada Coaching Classes. They are more confident in speaking and writing Marathi. Some have even won medals in Marathi elocution competitions.”
— Mrs. Bhagyashree Kalke, Marathi Teacher
“Moral values are diminishing in society. But I’ve seen that our students here have a deep respect for elders and strong character. It’s a joy to teach them.”
— Mrs. Parul Desai, Volunteer Teacher
Parents appreciate that the Sarada Coaching Classes provide a unique, compassionate environment. The teacher-student relationship is akin to that of a parent and child, and the inclusion of extracurricular activities and values-based education distinguishes it from ordinary tuition classes.
Before COVID, the classes supported up to 70 students. Post-pandemic, we are steadily rebuilding and currently cater to around 40 students, supported by a team of 40 volunteer teachers. Classes cover English, Marathi, Hindi, Maths, Science, and Social Studies for 4th to 9th standard, in both English and Hindi mediums.
Our aim remains the same – to empower the underprivileged through education rooted in values and compassion.
IMAGES OF THE SARADA COACHING CLASSES
