Empowering Adolescents: Kishori Sammelan on Problem Solving at Umeed Center

On Saturday, 21st August 2025, the Umeed Center hosted a vibrant and insightful Kishori Sammelan aimed at empowering adolescent girls through a special session on “Problem Solving.” The workshop was facilitated by the Sahyog Group from Vadodara, with the participation of 50 teenage girls from the community.

Session Overview:

The session was thoughtfully designed to engage the girls in identifying everyday challenges and finding practical, collective solutions. The main focus was to enhance their critical thinking and decision-making skills through interactive learning.

To begin, the 50 girls were divided into five groups. Each group was presented with a real-life scenario related to challenges adolescent girls commonly face. The groups were then asked to discuss, analyze, and creatively present their solutions through skits and role-play.

Group Activities & Case Scenarios:

1. Problem 1: Early Marriage vs. Education

   • A girl wishes to continue her education, but her family insists on marrying her early.

   • The group discussed how the girl could respectfully communicate her aspirations, seek support from trusted adults, and involve teachers or local counselors to help her explain the long-term benefits of education.

2. Problem 2: Safety & Harassment

   • A girl is being followed on her way to school and feels unsafe.

   • The group suggested strategies such as reporting the issue to school authorities, sharing with parents, traveling in groups, and contacting local women’s helplines or community leaders.

3. Problem 3: Physical Disability and Inclusion

   • A physically challenged girl lacks confidence and feels left out in school activities.

   • The group emphasized self-confidence, peer support, and inclusive behavior from teachers and classmates. They also highlighted the importance of encouraging her talents and not defining her by her disability.

4. Problem 4: Gender-Based Restrictions

   • A girl is not allowed to go out for extracurricular activities or social events.

   • The group portrayed how open communication with family, sharing positive role models, and demonstrating responsibility can help build trust and create opportunities for freedom.

5. Problem 5: Poverty and Educational Access

   • A girl from a financially weak family struggles to afford school materials and uniform.

   • The group discussed resourcefulness—applying for scholarships, seeking community donations, and utilizing free government schemes to continue education without burdening the family.

Each group gave a short skit performance, demonstrating their problem and solution. These performances helped other participants understand different perspectives and learn new ways of tackling similar issues in their own lives.

Conclusion:

The session was deeply engaging, informative, and empowering. All five group presentations were well-received and encouraged open discussions. The girls showcased creativity, empathy, and confidence while presenting their solutions.

The program concluded at 3:30 PM after a group reflection and feedback round. The participants left feeling more aware, supported, and motivated to overcome challenges in their personal and educational journeys.