Introduction
Held from March 15–22, 2025, at the NFBM Education Campus, Pune, the Skill Development Center Summer Camp welcomed 32 students from Class 11 as well as those in College. The camp was inaugurated by entrepreneur Mr. Vansh Pardeshi and opened with an inspiring speech by Nikita Kirtane, President of the Disha Rotaract Club. Dignitaries such as Sakina Bedi and Col. Pramodan Marathe also graced the occasion.
This year’s camp focused on building essential life skills through engaging workshops in skilling, grooming, wellness, disaster preparedness, and personal development.
Day-wise Highlights
Day 1 – Maratha History & Cultural Insights
Prof. Devkumar Ahire (SPPU) presented a powerful session on Maratha history, covering the Varkari tradition, role of saints in social reform, Shivaji’s Ganimi Kawa warfare, and contributions from families like Pawar, Holkar, Gaikwad, Shinde. He also highlighted the roles of women and reform movements like Satyashodhak Samaj.
Day 2 – Wellness & Bollywood Dance
A morning yoga session focused on Omkar chanting, breathing techniques, and Surya Namaskar to relieve stress. In the afternoon, students enjoyed a high-energy Bollywood dance workshop with Rahul Murumkar, learning choreographed routines that brought joy and team bonding.
Day 3 – Chocolate Making Workshop
A fun, hands-on workshop taught students the art of chocolate making – from tempering and molding to decorating and packaging. Divided into teams, students practiced techniques like double melting, wrapping, and creative packaging.
Day 4 – Grooming: Makeup & Hairstyling
Students explored basic makeup and skincare, practicing on each other with expert guidance. In the hairstyling session, they learned braiding techniques and created elegant styles, ending the day with a fun photo session to showcase their looks.
Day 5 – Disaster Management
Col. Pramodan Marathe and his team delivered an impactful training on first aid, use of triangular bandages, and fracture stabilization with splints. Hands-on demonstrations helped students gain practical life saving knowledge.
Day 6 – Mental Health & Well-being
Led by the Roshini Foundation, this session focused on managing exam stress, building self-awareness, and expressing emotions. Activities included:
- Circle Time: Students shared the meaning behind their names.
- Music Icebreaker: Songs evoked memories, building emotional connections.
- SWOT Analysis: Students reflected on their Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats, encouraging introspection and peer learning.
Day 7 – Team Building & Orientation Training
Students engaged in fun team-building exercises to improve collaboration. In the afternoon, they learned mobility skills such as using a white cane, interpreting auditory cues, and using tactile maps, boosting their independence. A creative intuition-based drawing session followed.
Closing Ceremony
Held on March 22 at the NFBM Jagriti School for Blind Girls, Alandi, the ceremony was led by Ms. Ronita Ghosh, founder of Jikoni Foundation, who inspired students with her journey and words of encouragement.
Vision-Aid Role
Vision-Aid is proud to support the summer camp and in making these impactful workshops possible. Vision-Aid’s support enabled students to learn vital skills across personal development, grooming, disaster preparedness, and mental wellness.
Student Reflections
Students praised the camp for its enriching blend of education and fun, and many shared how the week helped them grow in confidence, creativity, and teamwork. The program succeeded in creating a supportive space for self-discovery and skill development.
Conclusion
The Skill Development Center Summer Camp 2025 proved to be a transformative experience. With a variety of interactive sessions, students walked away empowered and inspired. We look forward to continuing this tradition of nurturing growth, creativity, and self-confidence.
