The SMILE-III project has made significant progress in its mission to empower marginalized communities across 7 districts in Bihar, including Patna, Nalanda, Nawada, Jehanabad, Jamui, Lakhisarai, and Munger. The SMILE-III project Covering 7 districts of 16 Block 16 and 58 Panchayats of 164 villages. 

During the month, The coordinator visited 6 villages of Maner and Khaspur of  Patna district, 6 villages of Roh and kawakol block in Nawada district, and 2 villages of Jehanabad district, meeting with WRC, AGRC, and SHG groups. The coordinator’s visits to villages have further strengthened community bonds, addressing local issues. He also meet with field staff and reviewed their community register and village file and given feedback and suggestion.

During the month, SMILE  project organized village level sensitization campaign on right to Education on 30 & 31  January 2025  at 2 villages of maner block of patna district and one village of kako block of Jehanabad district on 28th January 2025. The sensitization campaign aimed to foster a positive mindset among children and parents, emphasizing the importance of education as a fundamental right. The campaign sought to educate parents about the significance of education and raise awareness about the rights and entitlements of children.

On 26th of January 2025, Republic Day celebrations was organized to   fostering a sense of patriotism and national pride among children, while emphasizing the significance and values of this momentous occasion. Through the ‘SMILE Project-III’, the event aimed to inspire students to uphold the honor, integrity, and cultural diversity of our great nation, and to identify themselves as proud Indians. The celebrations were held across 12 Life Education Development Centers in 12 villages, including Roh, Kawakol, Sikandra, Jehanbad, Basauni, Khaspur, and Chitnawan. The events were marked by great enthusiasm and patriotic fervor, with children from the LED Centers participating in slogan recitals and performing two national songs. Thought-provoking speeches were delivered by the children on the significance of Republic Day, accompanied by remarkable presentations on social issues such as child labor, child abuse, and the Right to Education.

During the month SMILE-III project report a testament to the power of collective action and community-driven change. As the project continues to grow, its impact will resonate across the lives of countless individuals, fostering a brighter, more equitable future. The project’s progress indicates its positive impact on the socioeconomic situations of marginalized communities, empowering them through financial inclusion, education, and healthcare access.