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Project Sona Lipi : Gets Great result in Chopra, West Bengal

The Sona Lipi project is progressing well, child learning center is going well, with 40–50 students participating regularly. The sessions are facilitated by two dedicated teachers who provide both academic and personal support to the learners.

To take this project into the next phase, under the leadership of Fr. George Poonattu, a visit and study were conducted by Vincentian Social Services at Choudrigach, Chopra, West Bengal. During this process, we engaged with various stakeholders, including school teachers, parish priests, and other NGOs.

A significant contribution came from Siliguri Salesian College (Autonomous), where seven BSW students, along with their professor, conducted a Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) in the locality. Using PRA tools, they prepared a comprehensive report highlighting the social, economic, and psychological strengths, challenges, and weaknesses of the villagers.

Based on the findings of these studies, we have resolved to:

• Strengthen and restructure the Child Learning Centre to better meet the educational needs of children.
• Form Self-Help Groups (SHGs) among women in the locality to promote empowerment and sustainable community development.

This collaborative effort marks an important step toward ensuring holistic growth and community participation in the Sona Lipi mission.

We extend our special appreciation to the Divine Voice Retreat Center, especially Fr. Dileep Kumar and Fr. Arun Mattappallil, for their continued support and encouragement.