‘Sunday Is Funday’: A Unique Initiative Bringing Education And Joy To Tribal Children By Miam Charitable Trust

In the remote and Naxal-affected regions of Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli district, Miam Charitable Trust, under the dynamic leadership of social worker Nitu Joshi, has launched an inspiring and much-needed initiative titled “Sunday is Funday.” The goal of this program is to divert tribal children from the growing influence of substance abuse and instead engage them in positive, playful, and educational activities.

In these tribal regions, the lack of recreational resources and educational exposure has led many children to fall into the same patterns of tobacco and substance use as their elders. Understanding the urgent need for intervention, Nitu Joshi and her team at Miam Charitable Trust started Sunday is Funday — a weekly program designed to introduce fun, learning, and confidence-building into the lives of these young children.

Every Sunday, the children are provided with toys, bicycles, and sports equipment. Through various games, they are not only kept engaged but are also taught basic education concepts in a fun and interactive way. Slowly, the children have overcome their hesitation and now communicate openly. They look forward to the sessions every week and are gradually developing a love for learning. As a gesture of encouragement, they are also given chocolates and small gifts at the end of each session.

Speaking about the initiative, Nitu Joshi said, “Our aim is not just to entertain children but to build their confidence and give them a new direction in life. If we nurture these young minds today, they can become responsible and empowered citizens tomorrow.”

Miam Charitable Trust has been actively involved in numerous social causes, including support for orphaned children, educational assistance for students preparing for competitive exams, and water conservation efforts. Under Nitu Joshi’s leadership, the NGO continues to provide free books, cover school fees, and supply educational materials to the children of farmers and tribal communities.