National Service Scheme (NSS 344) in collaboration with the Centre for Social Innovations and Lifelong Learning (CSILL) organized a workshop on Art on April 2, 2026 at CSILL India Foundation Office, Kottakkal to NSS Volunteers (Teachers/Tutors for the “Bridging Education” program).
Introduction
On April 2, 2026, a specialized collaborative training session was held between the NSS and CSILL India Foundation. This workshop was specifically designed for NSS volunteers who serve as tutors for students from adopted schools under the “Bridging Education” initiative. The core focus of the session was to introduce Art Therapy as a tool for mental well-being and pedagogical enhancement.
Inaugural Session
The program commenced with an official welcome address by Mr. Shihabudheen, Director of the CSILL India Foundation. He emphasized the importance of innovative teaching methods and the role of social innovations in bridging the educational gap for underprivileged students.
Session Overview: “Mind Therapy through Drawing”
The technical session was led by Ms. Vyga, who facilitated a deep dive into art as a therapeutic medium. Unlike traditional art classes, this session focused on “Express-Heal-Transform,” using drawing as a vehicle for emotional release and cognitive development.
Key components of the session included:
- The Psychology of Colors: Understanding how different hues can impact a student’s mood and focus.
- Non-Verbal Communication: Training teachers to identify emotional cues in their students’ drawings.
- Stress Management: Practical drawing exercises designed to reduce anxiety and improve concentration for both teachers and students.
Relevance to the “Bridging Education” Program
Since the participating NSS volunteers are responsible for tutoring students from adopted schools, the session provided them with:
- Creative ways to engage students who may have learning difficulties or emotional barriers.
- Tools to make the tuition sessions more interactive and less intimidating.
- Methods to foster a “healing” environment within a standard educational setting.
Conclusion
The workshop successfully equipped the NSS volunteers with unique psychological tools to better serve their students. By integrating “Mind Therapy” into the Bridging Education program, the volunteers are now better prepared to not only teach academic subjects but also support the mental and emotional growth of their students.
