It was an exciting day as a team of 15 students led by Dr Jason Brown, Academic Program Director, Experiential Learning & Sarah Seery-Team Leader, Employability & Global Skills from the prestigious University of Melbourne- Asha’s new Academic Partner, visited Asha on 12th January 2024. The group had a highly interactive session with the team at the Asha headquarters to gain insight into the work that Asha has transformed lives in the community over the past 35 years. The team were overwhelmed to learn about how people have benefited from the work and how the programmes draw support from individuals and organisations across the globe. They also discussed the role of social media in projecting Asha's work at a widespread level and how Asha can benefit from the innovations in the digital world. After the formal interactions, the team broke into small groups and interacted with the Asha team over warm cups of coffee and snacks- enjoying Asha’s amazing 35 years journey through the photo gallery and were briefed on the important milestones and defining moments in this journey.
After this, the group proceeded to Dr Ambedkar's slum colony, where they were welcomed with great warmth and enthusiasm. They met with the Asha Ambassadors, college students, members of the Women's Association and the Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) from the area. The women shared about their journey at Asha and how being a part of the Women's Association has filled them with confidence to work towards community welfare, changing face of the community. They were also overwhelmed and impressed to listen to the students' journey and how they are doing so well despite such difficult living conditions. The voice of the students echoed the power of Education in changing their lives and giving shape to Dr. Kiran’s vision.
The team members of the University expressed how this first-hand experience in the slum and listening to the stories of transformation will have a lasting impression on them. They also expressed hope for more such exiting visits in the future and strengthening the relationship.
