Vidya launches tech-based learning system

Actress Vidya Balan here Sunday launched a mobile phone-based learning system that seeks to make the learning process interesting for children. According to the system, following a missed call on toll free No.18001208989, a recorded message would play on the return call that would take children through a learning module in an interesting manner.

The learning system, as part of Nihar Naturals Shanti Amla's 'Chotte Kadam Pragati ki Aur' initiative, will help children learn English words. The brand, in association with Child Relief and You (CRY) India, is in its second phase of the campaign and brand ambassador Vidya showed how to use the IVR (interactive voice response) system.

"I did a similar thing (play a teacher) last year in Lusa village of Mirzapur district. But this time, I had more information to share," Vidya told IANS here. She even used Bollywood songs to teach children of the village, also situated in the same district.

The "Paa" star believes movies have the largest reach in this context. "When you use a song to tell them something ... you are hoping it stays with them. It has strong impact on them," said Vidya. Nihar Naturals Shanti Amla in association with CRY also created a learning environment by placing wind chimes of alphabets and numbers and wall paintings with simple Hindi to English translations in the village.

Vidya also interacted with self-help group women who are spearheading the campaign in their respective regions. They took a pledge to ensure the progress of children's education. Launched in September 2012, the initiative, aimed at empowering women to support children's education in the country, has made an impact on many lives.

As part of the initiative, two percent of all proceeds from the sale of the hair oil are contributed to the cause of children's education. Nihar Naturals Shanti Amla has so far supported 19 projects across 10 states, including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Across India, 36,058 children have got the opportunity to get educated. Vidya highlighted that in Lusa village alone, the initiative helped motivate 128 children to stay in school, 31 dropouts to re-enrol and upgrade middle school infrastructure.