Surat: In a modest classroom at the Andhjan Shikshan Mandal, a school for visually impaired students in Surat, the hum of Braille-enabled laptops fills the air. For many of these students, this is more than just new technology—it is a gateway to independence and opportunity.
"This support is life-changing for our students," said Manisha Gajjar, Principal of the school, reflecting on how these devices are enhancing digital learning and equipping children with skills that help them thrive.
The installation of digital boards and specialised laptops is part of a broader initiative by the Dawoodi Bohra community under their philanthropic arm, Project Rise. The community recently provided essential educational resources to three schools in Surat, Anglo Urdu Muslim School, Andhjan Shikshan Mandal and Mook Badhir Vikas Trust, aiming to create inclusive and equitable learning environments for children facing unique challenges.
Students at Andhjan Shikshan Mandal in Surat using Braille-enabled laptops for digital learning | File Photo
At Mook Badhir Vikas Trust, a school for hearing-impaired students, five smart boards were installed to make lessons more interactive and visually engaging. Anita Vaidhya, a representative from the school, shared how these tools have transformed the classroom experience: "Seeing their eyes light up with understanding and excitement is truly priceless." For children who rely on visual cues to learn, these screens are not just teaching aids—they are lifelines to comprehension in an increasingly digital world.
Meanwhile, at Anglo Urdu Muslim School, digital boards were installed in classrooms, and financial aid was also provided to cover the annual fees of 200 students from underprivileged families. For parents struggling to make ends meet, this gesture ensures their children can continue their education without interruption.
The driving force behind these efforts is the Dawoodi Bohra community’s leader, His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin’s vision of education as a cornerstone of dignity and self-reliance.
“Syedna’s deep commitment to advancing education as a means of empowerment and social progress resonates deeply with the support provided to our students,” said Mohammed Hayat Khan, a Trustee of Surat District Muslim Educational Society that runs Anglo Urdu Muslim School.
For the visually impaired students at Andhjan Shikshan Mandal, the twenty Braille-enabled laptops are more than just tools—they represent hope. "These laptops give them independence, confidence, and the chance to chase their dreams like any other child," said one teacher.
The Dawoodi Bohra community’s philosophy of service to society is rooted in this meaningful and impactful action. “Through Project Rise, our community across the world continues to focus on addressing food, healthcare and educational inequities while fostering inclusivity,” said Huzaifa Karachiwala, Coordinator of the project. In Surat’s classrooms, this vision is coming to life—one student at a time.
