“Multiplying Smiles: Mini Library Initiative"

Project Summary:

Problem Statement: Since May 3, 2024, Manipur has been ravaged by communal conflict, resulting in children and families forcibly displaced. These children are the most affected in terms of education, social and  psychological well being and uprooted belongingness.

Target Group: Children aged 3-15 years residing in relief camps in Manipur, totaling approximately 15,203 school-going children.

Proposed Solution: Multiplying Smiles: Mini Library Initiative aims to alleviate the educational and psychological impacts of the crisis through initiatives focused on basic literacy, education, and social well-being. A key component is the establishment of Mini Libraries at relief camps to provide educational resources and emotional support.

Hub Activities:

• Organizing Activities: Shapers & Volunteers conduct regular storytelling, craft-making, art therapy and educational games, supplemented by sessions on digital and financial awareness.
• Collaboration with Government: Partnered with Deputy Commissioner,Imphal East for setting up designated stay and reading spaces, including mini libraries, at relief camps.
• Creating Safe Havens: Established safe spaces within relief camps where children can access books, receive tutoring, and guidance to foster reading habits and educational development.

Short & Long-Term Goals/Results:

Short-term: By December 2024, establish mini libraries in 5 major relief camps, benefiting 800 children weekly.

Long-term: Improve educational outcomes and well-being of displaced children, fostering resilience and integration back into formal education systems.

Available Metrics:

As of July 2024, inaugurated two Mini Library Project at Sajiwa Relief Camp and Sawombung relief camps serving 260 children with activities twice weekly.

Aim to expand to additional relief camps, reaching a total of 2,000 children by December 2025.

Collaborators: Collaborated  with Deputy Commissioner,Imphal East District, NGOs, Social Enterprise, Bookstore owners and community volunteers to implement and sustain Mini Library initiatives.