As a teacher, the mechanical engineering batch of 2017 will always be special for me. In an age when students are deemed to be selfish and discourteous, here was a bunch of students who did not hesitate to stand up for the right cause. They would do things differently. In their four years of graduation besides their academic work, they would chalk up programmes to reach out to the marginalized, the neglected and were elated to see the positive impact of their work. So it was no surprise to me when just after graduating in 2017, the students despite being busy with their careers came up with the idea to spend Diwali with street kids. That was the genesis of Aaroha.
Other likeminded students, teachers and individuals joined our association and the family grew. Aaroha now is a registered NGO. It gives me immense pleasure and pride to see what the student community has achieved over the past five years. But there is still a long way to go to realize the goal of transforming lives. It has been a story of complete teamwork, sincerity, devotion and self-belief. ‘’The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others”- Mahatma Gandhi.
I think my students are doing what Gandhiji said. I take this opportunity to thank all our volunteers and donors and appeal to them to continue with their support, financial or otherwise. It will go a long way in the organisation becoming an agent of positive change. The journey so far is incredible and cherish worthy.
With best wishes,
Prof. Varghese,
Managing Director,
Aaroha- Giving Wings Association