‘Shishukunj’ (a Sanskrit word meaning a garden of children) is primarily an organisation dedicated for the development of children.
Shishukunj’s logo represents the underlying philosophy of the organisation. A child is like the blossoming bud that develops under the nurturing care of the beautiful flower. The pot holds the soil, manure and air that are needed for buds to blossom properly. By being that pot – Shishukunj provides the plethora of nutrients that enable a child’s holistic development.
As each bud becomes a flower they in turn take on the responsibility of nurturing the newer buds and so the circle that surrounds the logo remains intact and each new generation of Karyakars (field workers) continues the work of inspiring the future.
The uniqueness of Shishukunj is that it places the child at the heart of everything – the children are the most important members and they are the primary consideration when making any decision. The words “bhai” and “ben” suffix everyone’s name to promote an environment of equality so that the smallest baalak and the oldest member are placed on the same footing.
Many of our children grow up to become young professionals with extremely successful careers in business, medicine and public service, however, Shishukunj ensures that they maintain a grounded view of their achievements and that their success is put to positive use.
This symbol reflects the essence of Shishukunj since the formation of our very first Kendra of Shishukunj Karachi (in pre-Independence India) in 1941.
Approach
Our approach to our activities is rooted in the principles of great educationalists like Maria Montessori and Gijubhai Badheka, both of whom encouraged education to be delivered through the medium of fun and play. By allowing children to discover their hidden talents through enjoyment, they will stand the greatest chance of taking those talents and evolving them into significant accomplishments.
Every activity that we organise at Shishukunj stems from the ideal of “Gamat Saathe Gnaan” (learning through fun), and so our children must learn something whilst having a smile on their face throughout their time with us.
Role models are very important in Shishukunj, with a very strong emphasis placed on ensuring that all children are exposed to the behaviours and perspectives that develop decent citizens. Mahatma Gandhi and Swami Vivekananda form the inspiration here. Their philosophies with regard to respect, understanding, acceptance and appreciation, whilst standing strong in the face of ignorance underpin our approach to nurture. Many of our children grow up to become young professionals with extremely successful careers in business, medicine and public service, however, Shishukunj ensures that they maintain a grounded view of their achievements and that their success is put to positive use.