Sparsh Dharmanagar: Nurturing Young Minds With Compassion and Cultural Knowledge

Education, to me, has always been more than classrooms, textbooks, and exams. It is about shaping human beings-nurturing minds that are curious, hearts that are compassionate, and hands that are ready to contribute to the world. My motivation to open a school in Dharmanagar came from closely observing our local education system. While there were several schools in the area, I felt something essential was missing - a deeper focus on quality learning that shapes well-rounded individuals, not just academically capable students.

With this vision, I wanted to bring a reformative model of education to Dharmanagar - one that blends the timeless principles of Montessori and Waldorf learning. This approach values creativity, self-directed exploration, emotional intelligence, and respect for each child’s natural pace of development. I believe this combination will give our children the academic skills, confidence, and empathy they need to thrive in the modern world, while staying deeply rooted in human values.

Although I already held a Master’s degree and a PhD in Life Sciences, I knew that a strong foundation in education was essential before opening a school. That’s why I pursued and completed another Master’s degree in Education - to ensure that my understanding was not only from a scientific perspective but also grounded in sound pedagogical practice.

For me, a school is not merely an institution; it is a place where the future citizens of India are shaped. My vision has always been to nurture children who are compassionate, caring, and committed to giving back to their community.

And in today’s world, where climate change and ecological degradation are realities our children will inherit, I have made nature-based education a core part of the curriculum. This ensures our students grow with a respect for the environment, a sense of responsibility towards our planet, and the awareness to live in harmony with nature.

Education is more than just books and classrooms; it is about shaping young minds to be curious, compassionate, and culturally rooted individuals. At Sparsh Dharmanagar, we believe in an education system that blends academic learning with hands-on experiences, cultural enrichment, and a deep understanding of the natural world.

Over the past year, Sparsh Dharmanagar has established itself as a vibrant learning space that fosters creativity, independence, and a love for learning. Our approach incorporates Activity-Based Learning (ABL) and Nature-Based Learning (NBL), ensuring that children not only grasp concepts but also experience them in real life.

Celebrating Culture and Traditions

Cultural values are an integral part of our school philosophy. We have celebrated various festivals and events to instil a sense of belonging and appreciation for our roots. Bengali New Year (Nobo Borsho) was an opportunity to introduce students to traditional biodiversity knowledge, such as the importance of neem and turmeric baths for cleansing and the benefits of seasonal foods like drumstick leaves and raw mango lentil soup. Rabindra Jayanti saw our young learners engaging in a "Sit and Draw Rabindranath" activity, exploring the literary giant’s legacy through art.

Our celebration of Mother’s Day was marked by a heartfelt Matri Pujan, where mothers were felicitated with Gamusa, and a special ‘Make a Sweet Dish’ activity brought joy to both children and their mothers. Father’s Day was equally exciting, with children donning moustaches like their fathers and engaging in interactive sessions.

Festivals such as Durga Puja, Diwali, and Makar Sankranti were celebrated with great enthusiasm. Students created floral rangolis, painted diyas, and gifted them to residents of the Prantik old age home, spreading joy beyond the school walls. Through Makar Sankranti, they learned about various traditional Bengali pithas and the significance of ingredients like teel and sungapitha.

Hands-On Learning and Environmental Awareness

Nature-Based Learning (NBL) is a cornerstone of our curriculum, allowing students to connect with the environment in meaningful ways. On World Soil Day, students learned about soil composition by preparing soil mixes and planting marigold flowers, which they nurtured with care. Our ‘Leaf Hunt’ activity encouraged children to explore their surroundings and create beautiful artwork from collected leaves.

Winter brought an exciting ‘Best Out of Waste’ project where students repurposed orange peels to craft mushrooms, reinforcing the value of sustainability. Cooking sessions focused on non-fire recipes, ensuring children learned practical skills while having fun.

Enriching Experiences and Professional Development

Our dedication to holistic education extends to continuous professional development for teachers. Sparsh Dharmanagar educators underwent a week-long CPD program at Sparsh Guwahati, equipping them with modern teaching strategies. Additionally, invited talks enriched our academic environment, including a session by Sudipto Dey on understanding learning challenges in early education and a workshop by Anamika Gupta on Activity-Based Learning.

Unique Policies for a Progressive Learning Environment

Innovation is at the heart of Sparsh Dharmanagar. Our No-Bell Policy replaces the traditional school bell with self-managed time, fostering responsibility and reducing stress among students. The Barrier-Free School approach ensures flexible learning spaces where students can explore subjects beyond rigid classroom structures. Mixed-Age Classrooms, inspired by Montessori principles, allow peer learning and individualized pacing. Additionally, our Hourly SIP-SIP Policy encourages mindful water consumption through engaging activities.

As we step into another year of growth and learning, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to parents, teachers, and students for their unwavering support. Together, we continue to create an environment where young minds flourish, dreams take shape, and learning becomes a joyful journey.

Yasashi Foundation, the charitable arm of Sparsh Group of Schools, was established in February 2021 as a Section 8 company under the Companies Registration Act, 2013. Rooted in Sparsh’s mission to instill value education and community service, the journey began in 2010 with an Annual Exhibition cum Sale of handicrafts, where proceeds support underprivileged children, benefiting organizations like Mother Teresa Home, Axhom Shishu Kalyan Sadan, Hope Foundation etc. The Foundation now runs alongside the schools, engaging students, parents, and the community in meaningful philanthropic work, creating awareness, and inspiring collective action to improve the lives of less privileged children.

The Yasashi Foundation operates a non-formal education center at Goligaon, Bunda, serving 125 children - many school dropouts and some who have never attended school. Coming from marginalized backgrounds, these children benefit from SPARSH’s 18 years of expertise in foundational education, a mission the institution sees as its moral duty. Funding comes from creative initiatives like the annual Diya campaign during Diwali, where SPARSH students, parents, teachers, and Yasashi children together craft and decorate earthen lamps. These are sold to generate operational funds, making the initiative not just an educational endeavor, but also a lesson in empathy, collaboration, and community spirit. The Annual Diya Campaign, a joint initiative by Sparsh and Yasashi Foundation, received appreciation from Honorable Chief Minister Shri Himanta Biswa Sarma in 2022

Through Yasashi Foundation, SPARSH actively inspires youth participation in social service. Alumni regularly volunteer at the Yasashi Education Center, alongside MSW and BSW interns from institutions like NERIM Group of Institutions, who contribute their skills and compassion. The Foundation also receives generous support from philanthropists, both in funds and in kind, to enhance the education of less privileged children. Exceptional students from the Center have been sponsored by donors to pursue studies in prestigious city schools. Yasashi Foundation serves as a vital bridge, connecting deserving children with opportunities and benefactors, nurturing their potential and shaping brighter futures.

The official volunteers of Yasashi Foundation actively participate in community service initiatives such as Flood Relief Campaigns. Healthcare is also a key focus area, with regular medical check-ups organized for children studying at the education center. One of the foundation’s prime and most impactful initiatives is its commitment to ensuring holistic well-being, addressing not only education but also health, safety, and emotional support for underprivileged children.

Through Yasashi Foundation, SPARSH aims to contribute towards the nation’s mission of equality and equity in education. SPARSH seeks continued support from parents to nurture this mission, just as they have encouraged us so far, inspiring hope and ensuring every child receives the education and opportunities they deserve.

At SPARSH, the school believes that parents play a pivotal role in a child’s holistic development. The institution upholds the philosophy of the “golden triangle” — formed by the parent, teacher, and child — as the foundation for a successful educational journey. This triad ensures that the child receives consistent support, encouragement, and guidance both at home and in school. In alignment with this belief, SPARSH celebrates Mother’s Day and Father’s Day with great enthusiasm and heartfelt involvement.

These special days are more than ceremonial occasions; they are opportunities to strengthen the bond between parents and the school community. Various engaging competitions are organized for both mothers and fathers — from traditional attire contests that showcase cultural heritage, to cookery competitions that bring out culinary talents, and literary events where parents pen down touching memories or experiences with their children. Such activities not only bring out the best in parents but also allow children to see their parents actively participating in their world, creating a sense of pride and joy.

Moreover, these events foster an atmosphere of warmth, involvement, and inclusivity. Dignitaries and guest speakers are invited to grace the occasions. On Mother’s Day, for instance, inspirational women — exemplary mothers who have beautifully balanced their personal and professional lives — are invited to speak and share their stories. Their journeys serve as a source of motivation for other parents, reinforcing the idea that active parenting and professional success can go hand in hand.

Through these celebrations, SPARSH creates a nurturing environment where education extends beyond the classroom, deepening the emotional connection between school, parent, and child. It is this shared involvement that enriches the child’s learning experience and builds a community rooted in care, respect, and shared purpose.

In 2023, our school opened its doors to parents for a special Open House that went far beyond routine interaction. The event offered a glimpse into our unique pedagogy and the exciting changes in foundational education inspired by NEP 2020. A special focus was placed on inclusion, with SPARSH sharing how it supports children with special needs and how every parent plays a vital role in this journey. The day became even more enriching with thought-provoking talks by principals from leading city schools and a counseling psychologist, leaving parents informed, inspired, and deeply connected to our shared vision.

Mrs. Manobi Deka: A pioneer in the field of Early Childhood Education in Northeast India

Mrs. Manobi Deka, the visionary founder of Sparsh Group of Schools, has been an unwavering force in transforming foundational education in Northeast India. Since the inception of Sparsh, she has strived to be a changemaker in early learning, devoting her efforts to building a future-focused and inclusive educational framework. Her impactful work has gained national recognition across several prestigious platforms.

She has been invited to represent foundational education in multiple forums conducted by the Center for Education Development  Foundation (CED), where she was honored with the Shiksha Bharti Samman and Shiksha Bhushan Samman held in Gurgaon. Her philanthropic vision also received acclaim when her community welfare initiative was awarded the Best Community Give Back Initiative by ScooNews at the Great Indian Learning Awards held in Varanasi in December 2021.

Mrs.Manobi Deka’s voice in education has resonated on national and international stages. She was a distinguished speaker at Asia’s largest educators’ conference organized by DIDAC India and has also represented Sparsh at the Women Economic Forum. Her environmental and community engagement is evident in her participation in the Bosco Institute panel discussion alongside the renowned environmentalist, Jadav Payeng, where she had represented the Yasashi Foundation.

Her leadership in early childhood education was further reflected at the national conference organized by the Early Childhood Association of India, especially in the widely recognized TOD FOD JOD event, where she served as a panelist in her capacity as a Territory Head of ECA, North East. She has also contributed to the School Leadership Summit, Confluence Summit, and International School Leaders’ Summit sharing insights on holistic education.

Moreover, Mrs. Manobi Deka played a key role in developing the State Curriculum Framework with SCERT Assam. Collaborating with Vikramshila Foundation, UNICEF, DIET and other partners of the Focus Group , she contributed her expertise in curriculum design , ensuring alignment with the NEP 2020 goals and focusing on foundational learning and child centered education in Assam. She is also deeply involved with organizations such as NIPCCD, Mind India, Astitva, Psyche Space, and Prosesta, all of which work for neurodivergent children. Through her relentless efforts, she has emerged as one of Northeast India’s most respected and influential figures in foundational education.

Honouring Our Pillars of Support – International Labour Day at Sparsh

At Sparsh, we firmly believe that every member of our school community plays a vital role in shaping the nurturing environment we provide for our children. Among them, our support staff - the helpers, drivers, admin team, and many others - are the silent pillars who ensure that every day runs smoothly.

Each year, on 1st May – International Labour Day, Sparsh celebrates their dedication and hard work with heartfelt gratitude. The celebration brings together all branches of the school in a grand gathering. Students prepare beautifully crafted cards as tokens of appreciation, expressing their love and respect for those who serve the institution with devotion.

The day’s highlight is the felicitation of our helpers by the Principal with the traditional gamusa, a symbol of honour and respect. Teachers take over all duties for the day, from organising a delicious meal to arranging a cultural programme. The support staff, free from their daily responsibilities, participate in fun games and enjoy an atmosphere filled with laughter and togetherness.

Beyond the festivities, the celebration is an important lesson for our children - to value the dignity of labour and to respect every profession. At Sparsh, we know that without the dedication of our support staff, delivering quality early childhood care would be impossible. This day is our way of saying, “We see you, we value you, and we thank you.”

Continuous Professional Development At Sparsh

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is a key pillar of Sparsh Group of Schools. To keep pace with the changing education system, Ms. Manobi Deka, Director , Sparsh group of schools and Territory Head of the Early Childhood Association (ECA), actively organises impactful programs throughout the year.

In 2022, a major conference with ECA was held on 12th February, 2023 at Hotel Palacio, Guwahati, where Dr. Swati Popat, President of ECA-APER , and Chief Guest Anuja Bhuyan, Deputy Secretary of School of Elementary Education, Ms  Nellie Ahmed Tanweer ,  Founder , Maria’s Public School , Guwahati , Ms Mitra Som  Saha , Principal  , St . Vivekananda English Academy , Dr Sangeeta Goswami ,  President ,MIND India , Ms Maya Fernandes ,Principal, The down town School, Guwahati,  Ms Mausumi Mahanta , Principal, Maria’s Public School , Guwahati and  Dr Bandana Bhuyan , Former Regional Director, NIPCCD  shared invaluable insights on the significance of foundational years.

The second CPD conference took place at Hotel Parnil Palace  0n 26 th August 2023  with Mr. Thonkolt Mathe, Regional Director of CBSE Board, as Chief Guest. Esteemed dignitaries like Ms  Rekha Sahni, Diplomatic Secretary of ECA, Mr K . K Choudhury, Former Director of CBSE Guwahati, Mr. N.K Dutta, Principal of Miles Bronson  School,  Mr. Priyadarshi  Nayak  Founder and chairman CED Foundation, Ms  Asha Varma , Secretary, ECA-APER , Ms Kashmiri  Boruah , Child Development Expert , Ms Sagorika Sarmah Director and Operation Head  S .S Education and Consultancy, Ms Priyanka Bhattacharjee  Consultant  Clinical Psychologist , Apollo Hospital and Founder Psychspace ,  Ms Mausumi Mahanta , Principal, Maria’s Public School ,  Guwahati  , Ms. Anitha Raman Counselling  Psychologist , Ms Monalisa B . Singh , Principal , Delhi Public School, Jorhat,  Mr. Apu Dey , Principal  ,Vandya International School Guwahati  , Dr Shahnaz Ahmed, Chairperson , Springdale High School , Jorhat , Ms Sagarika Dastidar Hathkhowa , Senior Educator Cambridge Early Years , International School ,Guwahati ,  Ms Sashizungla Ao , Principal ,Hope Academy Dimapur ,Nagaland  and  Mr. Krishnanjan Chanda ,Principal,  South Point School, Guwahati  were  other prominent speakers of the conference . This one-day conference was organised by the ECA North-East Committee in collaboration with CED India and supported by Sparsh .

In-house CPD workshops are also held every year at the end of every academic session to align the curriculum of Sparsh  with the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2022. Workshops are also conducted to sensitize teachers with topics like professional ethics and POCSO regulations. 

Ms. Fariza Hussain and Ms.Sagorika Sarmah Director and Operation Head  S .S Education and Consultancy conducted a session on professional ethics for teachers. Mr. Miguel Das Queah Executive Director UTSAH and Mrs. Kishori Baruah, Senior Program Manager Utsah conducted a session on importance of Child Protection Policies and enlightened the team about the POCSO act.

Mr. Theo Ebbers , Senior Advisor , Childaid Network and Lucy Sutnga, Consultant Weitsicht Foundation conducted an interactive session on participatory teaching and learning practices.

1st Conference On NCF 2022 By ECA-APER

2nd Conference CED&ECA

In House Training

Beltola

Sixmile

Zoo Road

Annual Sports Day Of Sparsh

The annual Sports Day of SPARSH is one of the most awaited events for the children, parents, and teachers alike. Children from Toddler I to PG-II participate enthusiastically in various athletic events, showcasing their energy, skills, and sportsmanship. The event is organized with great zeal near the foundation day of SPARSH, which falls on 2nd December, making it even more special. Parents are invited to witness and encourage their little ones and are also involved in fun competitions, where fathers and mothers actively participate, adding more excitement to the day. The event is inaugurated by respected dignitaries, including principals of other schools and esteemed members of civil society, which adds grace to the occasion. The day starts with impressive field events like yoga demonstrations and theme-based dances related to sports, performed by the children, which set the tone for the day. Teachers play an equally important role; dressed in sports attire, they participate and motivate the students with full enthusiasm. The Sports Day of SPARSH is not just about winning but about fostering team spirit, discipline, and a healthy competitive attitude among children. It helps in building confidence, camaraderie, and the spirit of true sportsmanship in every child.

Annual Function Of Sparsh Group Of School

Sparsh Group of Schools celebrated its Annual Function on 23rd December, 2024 at Pragjyotish ITA Centre,Machkhowa, Guwahati with the mesmerizing cultural program related to environmental protection and conservation. 

The program was commenced by lighting of the lamp followed by felicitation of the Chief Guest Prof.Rakhi Kalita Moral and other dignitaries --- Laya Madduri, IAS Secretary Finance, Govt.of Assam, Bandana Baruah, Principal,Army Public School, Miguel Das Queah, Dr.Utpal Kataky, Dr.Udayan Misra, Dr.Tillotoma Misra, Dr.Mitrajeet Deb. 

The students enthralled the audience , showcasing on environment emphasizing on non-use of plastic products. The toddlers performed a ramp walk showing how to make best out of waste products. The PG- II children from Zoo Road and Six Mile branches showcased beautiful dance performances highlighting vital environmental themes. Through graceful dances, they depicted  the harmful impact of deforestation. One dance illustrated how rain is crucial for cultivation and sustaining life. The children also performed melodious songs emphasizing the significance of birds and animals in maintaining ecological balance and protecting the environment. Their performances sent a strong message about the need to care for nature and inspired everyone to take small steps towards a greener, healthier planet for future generations.The students showcased the cleanliness habits through mime acting. They depicted Sri Jadav  Payeng ( the forest man of India) as the role model. Also the protection of Hargila (Greater Adjutant Stork) by renowned conservationist Dr. Purnima Devi Barman was performed as a skit by the students. 

There was also a beautiful dance performance by the students of Yasashi Foundation -a school for the less privileged children, run by the Principal of Sparsh Group of Schools, Mrs. Manobi Deka. 

A special highlight of the occasion was the felicitation of long-serving team members who had completed 10 years of dedicated service to Sparsh in 2024. Dimpy Deka and , two more staff members were also recognized and awarded with a monetary token of love for their decade-long commitment and dedication to the institution.

The function culminated with the National Anthem leaving a last impression on all the attendees.