Team Wellbeing Mantra's Transformative Journey in Inclusive Education and Holistic Well-being
by Gunjan Tomar & Vineeta Garg
Inclusion is not merely a buzzword; it is a transformative force that has the power to reshape the landscape of education and chart a course towards a more empowered future. Inclusive practices in education go beyond mere acceptance; they celebrate diversity, foster empathy, and create environments where every student, regardless of background or ability, feels valued and supported. When we embrace inclusion, we break down barriers, opening doors to a rich tapestry of perspectives and experiences. This commitment to diversity and equity in education not only enhances academic achievement but also instils essential life skills, preparing students to navigate an increasingly interconnected world and empowering their future.
The Team Wellbeing Mantra is an organisation that has been working towards the goal of inclusive education to make the dream of inclusion possible for all. It became a symbol of hope and change in the educational landscape during the difficult times brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, especially for the less fortunate learners in India. The dynamic team of Ms. Gunjan Tomar and Ms. Vineeta Garg founded the organisation in 2019 with the goal of bridging the edtech divide, reducing inequality, and providing people with high-quality education and life skills.
The concept of the Wellbeing Mantra was conceived in response to the pronounced digital inequalities brought to the forefront by the pandemic. The evident divide between the affluent and the less privileged served as a call to action. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the organisation made a steadfast commitment to SDG-4 (Quality Education) and SDG-10 (Reducing Inequalities). The Wellbeing Mantra's commitment to SDG-4 (Quality Education) and SDG-10 (Reducing Inequalities) comes to life through its unique "4E Formula." This comprehensive approach, rooted in empathy, education, enrichment, and enlightenment, directly addresses the diverse needs amplified by digital inequalities.
The 4E Formula: A Comprehensive Approach
At the heart of Team Wellbeing Mantra's operations lies the unique "4E Formula":
Empathy, Education, Enrichment, and Enlightenment. This holistic approach goes beyond traditional educational models. It starts with empathy, which is about understanding the diverse needs of individuals. Education follows, tailored to address these needs comprehensively. Enrichment comes through the integration of social-emotional learning and responsible tech usage, fostering a wholesome learning environment. Finally, enlightenment equips students and educators with 21st-century skills, empowering them for the challenges ahead.
The organisation's dedication to fostering a high-quality teaching and learning environment extends seamlessly into its transformative initiatives, bridging the gap between education and skill development with a focus on accessibility, socio-economic equity, and cultural celebration.
Transformative Programmes: A Holistic Approach to Education and Skill Development
Wellbeing Mantra's programmes are designed on two levels:
Teaching-learning for educators and learners
Fundraising for well-being and vocational training for less privileged children and their parents.
Primarily meant to support NGOs and the less privileged sections of society in India, these initiatives ensure a holistic approach to education and skill development. The organisation's dream of creating a high-quality teaching and learning environment is not just a vision but a tangible reality accessible to all.
In its commitment to inclusivity, Wellbeing Mantra strives to enhance accessibility, address socio-economic disparities, and celebrate diversity, making concerted efforts to transform education into a potent force for individual empowerment and collective enrichment.
Impactful Initiatives:
Responding to the Needs of the Hour
During the lockdowns induced by the pandemic, Wellbeing Mantra demonstrated agility and compassion by extending educational and financial assistance to NGOs and their students across urban and rural India. From vaccine drives to launching the 'Accessibility with Technology of Android' initiative, the organisation also got involved in online fundraising, food relief distribution, and providing medical kits for COVID-19 prevention and treatment which underscored their commitment to the well-being of the communities they serve.
Enriching Mental, Physical, and Spiritual Well-being: A Holistic Approach
Understanding that education goes beyond textbooks, Wellbeing Mantra conducts interactive sessions addressing mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of health. These sessions equip students with 21st-century skills, fostering responsible decision-making, self-awareness, self-management, and relationship skills. The organisation recognises that true empowerment involves nurturing not just academic prowess but also the overall well-being of individuals.
Empowering Through Technology: The TECH GURU Program
Acknowledging the transformative power of technology in today's world, the organisation initiated the TECH GURU programme, teaching digital marketing skills to students and adults for local product promotion. ‘Making Coding Accessible for All’ programme not only teaches coding skills but also recognises and rewards students for their achievements. By making technology accessible, the aim is to empower individuals to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in various aspects of life.
Continued Collaboration and Changemaking: A Commitment to ‘Be the Change’
Following Mahatma Gandhi's principle, ‘Be the Change,’ the organisation is dedicated to creating a culture of embedded character values, fostering a symbiotic system of learning exchange within the community. They don't just advocate for change; they actively engage in changemaking, fostering a community-driven approach to education.
The ongoing impactful initiatives spearheaded by Wellbeing Mantra serve as a dynamic bridge, linking the present commitment to quality education with a visionary outlook for inclusivity and equity in the future.
A Vision for Tomorrow: Paving the Way for Inclusive and Equitable Quality Education
By teaching contemporary technology skills, essential life skills and modeling healthy behaviours and values, Team Wellbeing Mantra is paving the way for inclusive and equitable quality education. Their unwavering focus, consistency, and perseverance drive them toward realising their dream of promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. The organisation serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and well-being in a world full of challenges.
Connect with Team Wellbeing Mantra: Be a Part of the Change
The team can be reached at wellbeingmantras@gmail.com
Website: https://wellbeingmantras.wixsite.com/pedagogy-of-learning