Lakshmi: Finding Her Voice at CAMaL Ka Camp
Once quiet and hesitant, Lakshmi now leads learning activities with growing confidence
In a village in Karimnagar district, Telangana, Lakshmi, a Grade 5 student, is slowly transforming into a confident and enthusiastic learner.
Just a few weeks ago, Lakshmi was known as a shy and reserved girl in her community. She would rarely speak to anyone outside her family and mostly kept to herself. She had only a few friends and would hesitate to take part in group activities in the school. When P&G Shiksha–Pratham’s CAMaL (Combined Activities for Maximized Learning) Ka Camp began in her community this summer, she joined like many others—with some hesitation and uncertainty.
During the initial assessment, Lakshmi was only able to read simple words but things started changing for her quickly. After just two weeks of participating in the daily camp sessions, she was able to read full paragraphs with ease—clearly progressing towards reading full stories.
The camp, run by a local volunteer trained by Pratham, uses fun, level-based activities in reading and math to help children build strong foundational skills. Lakshmi quickly grew fond of the engaging warm-up games, language-building tasks, and storytelling activities.
From the start, the volunteer took special care to encourage Lakshmi and appreciate her every small effort. Gradually, she was given small responsibilities like taking attendance, following up with absentees, and helping lead simple activities. These opportunities gave Lakshmi a sense of ownership and confidence that slowly drew her out of her shell.
But what surprised everyone, including her volunteer, was how she began stepping up to conduct the activities herself. Not only does she eagerly volunteer to lead games or explain exercises, but she also does it with clarity and confidence that was once missing.
Lakshmi makes sure every child in the group understands the task. She encourages them, waits patiently, and even steps in to support others who are struggling—just like a young facilitator.
“From barely speaking to now leading activities—it’s a joy to see this side of Lakshmi,” says the volunteer, clearly proud of her progress.
She lives with her parents and younger brother, who studies in Grade 2. Her family has noticed the change too. Lakshmi smiles more, speaks up with confidence, and eagerly shares what she learns each day.
At the end of the camp, during the endline assessment, Lakshmi was able to read full stories on her own—a clear reflection of how far she had come.
What began as a quiet presence in a classroom has now become a voice of leadership and encouragement among peers. Through the supportive and playful environment of CAMaL Ka Camp, Lakshmi is finding her voice—and using it.
