‘Echo’ is a students’ movement that aims to bridge the gap of unequal education between the public and private sector schools in India. Initiated by the Rotaract Club of HR College and the Rotary Club of Bombay (RCB), Echo raises awareness of these inequities and puts into action a sustainable solution that all members of the community can support. Parsi Times supports and promotes ECHO, as media-partner, in its third year – ‘ECHO 2017’, which takes place from 4th – 7th April, 2017, at the Indian School of Management and Entrepreneurship (ISME) with the finale on Saturday, April 8th, at the KC College Auditorium from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Echo is the first phase of a long term solution to the ever increasing gap in India’s education system. Municipal school kids typically attend school for shorter hours than private school kids. They are taught only cursory matter in some fundamental subjects like Math, Science, English, etc. and extracurricular activities are entirely missing, meaning they miss learning fundamentals of critical thinking, problem solving, leadership creation, framing their point of view and lack the kind of self-confidence in their richer counterparts. On the flip side, the privileged children have a very removed view of the poverty and afflictions of the average municipal school student.

ECHO provides the solution by bringing both these factions together, enabling acquaintance, friendships, celebrating their differences and similarities – all through a dynamic, powerful and passionate exchange over four days which reverberates across societies, cultures, religions, financial levels, genders and homes. Supported by six colleges across Mumbai, Echo 2017 will bring together 270 municipal school children and 100 college children, thanks to the active support and encouragement of highly committed Rotarians and Rotaractors. Says the globally renowned Dr. Mukesh Batra, President Rotary Club of Bombay, “In India, we need more solutions and fewer problems. An empowered youth can bring about this change. A simple step can change and guide a generation to choose the right path in changing society.”

To participate / partner, please connect:  changemakers@gmail.com or 9892273973.