Learning Beyond Classroom

In partnership with the Centre for Social Action (CSA), the Department of Commerce at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa Campus, conducted the second phase of its outreach program at 12 No. School in Lavasa on October 10, 2025. Building on the success of the first session, this continuation aimed to deepen engagement with the children through interactive, activity-based learning methods. The initiative is part of the department’s broader commitment to holistic education, social responsibility, and community development. It brought together university students and schoolchildren for an immersive day focused on learning through play, skill-building, and confidence development.

The primary objective of this second session was to create a stimulating and inclusive environment for the schoolchildren by using innovative and activity-based teaching techniques. Unlike the first session, which emphasized interactive storytelling and games, this session focused more on educational activities designed to enhance language skills, cognitive abilities, and memory. Activities included card memorization games, spelling identification exercises, and engaging English-based learning games. These were thoughtfully planned by the university students to align with the learning levels and interests of the children while ensuring that education remained fun, accessible, and meaningful.

One of the day’s highlights was the card memorization activity, where children worked in small groups to remember and identify sequences of cards. This exercise was aimed at improving their memory retention, concentration, and teamwork. The spelling identification activity provided a playful yet structured way for the children to enhance their English language skills. Through letter recognition games, vocabulary-building tasks, and word-matching activities, the students were encouraged to learn new words and strengthen their foundational language abilities.

The university students played an active role in facilitating these activities with enthusiasm, ensuring that every child felt included and motivated. Their approachable demeanor created a warm learning environment where children were eager to participate, ask questions, and express themselves. This interactive approach helped reinforce crucial skills such as communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving in a fun and engaging manner.

Games and fun elements were also integrated into the educational exercises to maintain high levels of energy and excitement among the children. The simple yet creative games ensured that the activities were age-appropriate and inclusive, enabling every child to take part. The children responded with great enthusiasm, participating wholeheartedly and showcasing remarkable energy throughout the program. The shared laughter, teamwork, and curiosity created a vibrant atmosphere of joyful learning.

For the university students, this outreach experience was more than just teaching — it was an opportunity to reflect on their role as changemakers in the community. They gained valuable insights into how education can be made impactful and inclusive, particularly in underserved communities. The program reinforced the values of empathy, responsibility, and community engagement among the students, encouraging them to use their skills and resources to contribute meaningfully to society.

As the session concluded, both the university students and the schoolchildren shared a moment of heartfelt gratitude. The faculty members and CSA representatives acknowledged the students’ commitment and creativity, emphasizing the importance of such programs in strengthening community-university ties. The schoolchildren expressed their joy and appreciation, their excitement evident through their active participation and cheerful goodbyes.

This second phase of the outreach program further exemplified the Department of Commerce’s and CSA’s shared commitment to social action and inclusive education. By bringing innovative, activity-based learning to 12 No. School, the department successfully extended its ethos of holistic development beyond the classroom. The program not only enriched the children’s learning experiences but also inspired university students to continue engaging in meaningful community initiatives. It stands as a testament to the university’s mission of nurturing socially responsible individuals dedicated to positive change.