Awakening Critical Thinking in Young Minds

In Daman, Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli, school libraries were once underutilised. Books were frequently left untouched and reading was primarily seen as a tool for exam preparation. The idea of lively, inviting libraries that develop a genuine love for reading and contribute to holistic development was largely overlooked.

In May 2023, the Education Department of Union Territory approached the Tata Trusts team to transform school libraries into active learning spaces. Through the Parag initiative, the Children’s Library Course (CLC) was introduced, offering teachers handson training via workshops and practical exercises. After orientation, 60 educators were selected; 30 underwent rigorous three-month training with contact classes, assignments, group discussions, mentor support and mock sessions.

District officials from all three districts actively supported this initiative, providing necessary administrative and logistical assistance to ensure smooth implementation. Block Resource Coordinators (BRCs) and District Institute of Education and Training (DIET) faculties participated in the contact classes, a unique feature of this statesupported initiative.

One teacher from the cohort reflected, “I feel a deep connect to books now and a sense of ownership towards my school library. This intervention has brought in a much-needed change to look beyond one publisher and explore more books from new publishers, which are attractive, age-appropriate and good quality.” Another teacher observed, “We had libraries, but books were locked inside cupboards; but with the intervention by the state and Parag support, libraries have become a big priority and books are now being given to children.”

Following this intervention, libraries began to take on a new role within schools. Separate time slots were dedicated to library activities and classrooms carved out space for designated ‘Reading Corners’. Teachers became enthusiastic advocates for reading and started incorporating book discussions, storytelling sessions and reading activities into their lesson plans. A government teacher from Silvassa shared a touching story about a Grade 3 girl was initially was shy and irregular to school. After the introduction of a reading corner in the classroom, the child started borrowing storybooks and became a regular attendee.

The changes brought a noticeable shift in the perception and utilisation of libraries among both educators and students. Following the completion of the first two batches, continuous training for more educators is being offered to expand the initiative’s reach. This expansion empowers students to explore their interests, engage with diverse literature and develop critical thinking abilities, shaping their academic journeys and personal growth.

This story has been taken from the Tata Trusts' Annual Report 2023-24.