Devi Ahilyabai Education Foundation's Blind School

In Farukhabad, Uttar Pradesh, India, there is a school for children who are blind. This school is made possible thanks to the tireless efforts of the Devi Ahilyabai Education Foundation and the dedicated team behind it. Since its inception, the foundation has been a lifeline for 25-30 children at the Blind School, offering them not just education, but also a safe, loving environment where they can grow and thrive.

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The journey of the Blind School began with the visionary leadership of Rampratap Singh and his family, who took it upon themselves to nurture and care for these children as their own. What makes this school so unique is not just its mission but the love and care that Rampratap Singh and his family pour into it. Rampratap and his sister manage the day-to-day operations, ensuring the children’s educational and emotional needs are met. Meanwhile, Rampratap’s mother prepares warm meals for the children every day, providing them with nourishment both physically and emotionally. Their father, ever vigilant, sleeps at the school each night to guarantee the safety and security of the children. This family-led initiative creates an atmosphere where the children feel truly at home. It’s not just a school—it’s a family. The warmth, kindness, and dedication shown by the Singh family exemplify the power of compassion and the transformative impact of a supportive environment.

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The Devi Ahilyabai Education Foundation is focused on improving the Blind School through a three-phase development plan that addresses the critical aspects of safety, lodging, and education for the children.

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Phase 1- Ensuring Safety (Completed):  The first phase of the project involved building a brick wall around the school’s perimeter. Situated in an area where wildlife can sometimes pose a risk, this wall acts as a vital safeguard for the children. Not only does it protect them from potential animal encounters, but it also enhances the overall security of the school grounds, allowing children to play and learn outside without fear.

Phase 2- Enhancing Living Spaces (Pending):  The second phase focuses on upgrading the living accommodations for the children. Separate living areas for boys and girls will provide much-needed privacy, fostering a more comfortable and respectful environment. These renovations ensure that the children have adequate space for rest and recreation. This phase has yet to be completed.

Phase 3- Improving the Classroom Environment (Completed):  Winter months bring chilly temperatures to Farukhabad. The third phase of the project will add insulation to the flooring of the classrooms. This will allow the children to sit comfortably on the floor while studying and also allow more warmth to be retained in the classrooms.

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The work done at the Blind School is a powerful testament to the impact of education in every form—whether it’s through formal schooling or creating a safe, nurturing space where children can thrive. Thanks to the unwavering support from donors, Rampratap Singh’s family, and the Devi Ahilyabai Education Foundation, these children have the opportunity not only to receive an education but also to feel the warmth of love, security, and care.

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As the project continues to unfold in phases, the vision of the Devi Ahilyabai Education Foundation grows brighter. The foundation’s work shows how, with a little love and dedication, a lot can be accomplished, and lives can be transformed.

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In 2019 before the construction on the boundary wall began, our co-founder, Vasu Agrawal and Development Coordinator, Shivani Gupta were able to visit the school where they met with Ramprathap Singh and his family to better understand the needs of the school and to interact with the children there.