In the rugged terrains of Panjkot, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, our project Carrott Kids became a beacon of hope for countless children. These young souls, once overshadowed by the devastating 2005 earthquake, found a new promise for their future through our initiative.
Building a Future on Education:
Dedicated to delivering quality education to even the most marginalised, we embarked on an ambitious project. Our mission was not only to construct new educational facilities but also to rehabilitate schools turned to rubble or left dilapidated by the earthquake. Despite immense challenges, our commitment remained strong, guided by:
- Strategic Investments: With a budget of £20,000, our goal was to construct facilities that included 5 classrooms, capable of accommodating up to 200 children.
- Commitment to Holistic Growth: Our approach extended beyond traditional education. We focused on holistic development, incorporating literacy initiatives and arts programs, particularly empowering young women through traditional crafts. In Kashmir, where women artisans create ‘Waguv’—a traditional mat—and other crafts from reed and rice straws, we integrated these skills into our curriculum. These crafts not only celebrate cultural heritage but also provide practical, insect-resistant storage solutions over bamboo.
Kashmir’s crafts, like the wickerwork used to insulate clay pots (‘kangri’) filled with coal for warmth under long robes, showcase the community’s creative adaptations to harsh winters.
Transformation at Panjkot:
The shelter school in Panjkot, which had provided education under challenging conditions since 2005, underwent a significant transformation. With our intervention, a temporary setup evolved into a three-room, earthquake-resistant structure, offering a safer and more conducive learning environment.
Through these efforts, we’re not just rebuilding schools—we’re renewing hope and empowering communities for generations to come.
