Creativity and Innovation in riot-affected children

by

Kumar Rahul RoushanPGP-II

IIM Ahmedabad

Riots and children

Children and Women are the worst victims of any riot or any war

Witness to the most horrendous crimes against humanity

Psychic wound very deep in children Gujarat riots (2002) changed the lives of

thousands of kids

Previous studies and observations

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) irritability, sadness, fear, sleep disturbances,

difficulties in concentrating and feelings of guilt 5% suffering from disorder and 9.4% from

depression (February 2006 study) Lack of social support a reason - Psychiatry

Department at the Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad Active social intervention has helped

Arzoo Center

Sulekha Ali and friends started in 2002 Shah-e-Alam camp brought them together Thought of forming this self-help group Teaches small kids to prepare them for higher

education Hindu and Muslim kids study together Skill training apart from education

Creativity and Innovation

Sharp and innovative Eager to prove themselves Treasure their education No specific vocations in mind

School Teacher (Roshni)

Build airplanes, big houses, etc. Sense of independence

Knowledge Network

Skillful and beautiful handicraft work Need a platform to showcase talent Organizers don’t know how an NGO is run Rent and salary problems Dependent upon occasional visits by

benevolent guests Need volunteers and expert help

The road ahead

People have to be sensitized for social intervention and acceptance of these kids

Continuous medical help – but no social stigma attached with it

Speedy justice to juveniles/children languishing in jail or battling cases

Use their skill-set and give them an opportunity to smile

Thank you!