Diwan Chand: 66-Year-Old Volunteer Brings Learning to Children
He opened his home for CAMaL Ka Camp and created a space where children could explore, learn, and play
In a remote village of Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh, 66-year-old Diwan Chand found a new purpose this summer. Not one to settle with just a quiet retired life, he turned his home into a vibrant learning space for children in his community.
A former panchayat secretary, who served his community for over a decade (2003–2017), Chand has always been deeply rooted in public service. Even after stepping away from official duties, his commitment to education never wavered. “It’s something that’s been important to our whole family,” he says proudly. His three daughters are teachers, and his son is preparing for a state government role.
Years ago, Chand adopted a local government school, where he often steps in as a volunteer teacher when needed. So when he heard about P&G Shiksha–Pratham's summer learning initiative, CAMaL (Combined Activities for Maximized Learning) Ka Camp, he knew right away he wanted to be a part of it.
In May 2025, Chand opened the doors of his own home to conduct the camp, bringing together children from the neighbourhood for an engaging and joyful learning experience. CAMaL Ka Camp focuses on strengthening children’s foundational math skills through stories, songs, role-play, games, and play-based activities.
Chand created simple teaching aids—charts, abacuses, and number diaries—and used them in fun and meaningful ways. Activities like number jump for number recognition and number circle to understand place value soon became camp favourites.
“Children lose interest quickly," he said. “But the way these activities are designed, they keep them engaged. So children learn while enjoying themselves."
Eager to keep up with the times, Chand also completed the Digital Readiness Course, offered through Pratham’s volunteer initiative, Education for Education (EfE). He learned to use different Google tools, such as Gmail, Maps, Translate, Lens, and even AI.
For someone always fascinated by the flora of his mountain surroundings, Google Lens became a personal favourite. “Now I can finally identify all the plants I see on my walks,” Chand laughed. “And if I need directions, I don’t ask anymore—I just open Google Maps.”
Google Translate also proved useful in his teaching. “I use it to help children understand concepts better,” he shared.
Volunteering with children also took him on a trip down memory lane. “Though I cannot relive my childhood, I feel like I’ve got a chance to remember it," he said. “Back then, if I didn’t understand something, I would get scolded for my handwriting or homework. But this camp is different. There’s no pressure here. No homework. Just joy and discovery.”
