Swarn Vidya: Empowering Underprivileged Girls Through Free Education in Noida - Billabong High International School Noida

In the heart of Noida, Swarn Vidya Classes shines as a beacon of hope for young girls from economically challenged backgrounds. Founded on 1 March 2018 by Ms. Jasmine Gandhi, Director at Billabong High International School Noida, the initiative stands as a tribute to her revered mother. The name “Swarn Vidya”—literally “golden knowledge”—captures the precious and luminous transformation that education brings to these children’s lives.

Ms. Gandhi’s vision was simple yet profound: “जब हर एक विद्यार्थी की आवाज़ सुनाई देती है, तब वातावरण ऐसा बनता है, जहाँ विद्यार्थी अपने आप को व्यक्त कर सकते हैं”—when every student’s voice is heard, an environment blooms where self-expression is free and encouraged. What began with just nine intrepid students has steadily grown, thanks to her dedication and that of Principal Ms. Sharmila Chatterjee, with both inspiring the program to expand its reach and impact.

Holistic education is at the core of Swarn Vidya’s teaching philosophy. The curriculum is designed to adapt to each student’s unique requirements, cultivating a joyous, nurturing atmosphere where they can thrive. Beyond academics, the program actively encourages participation in science exhibitions, promoting awareness around environmental care, balanced nutrition, and cleanliness—empowering the girls to become informed and responsible citizens.

The centre also promotes creativity through arts and crafts, where girls make cards and other items—nurturing their artistic talents and creative confidence. Celebrations of national and cultural festivals are a vibrant affair, as students express themselves through dance, drama, and music, reinforcing cultural pride and self-esteem.

Swarn Vidya emphasizes the physical wellbeing of its learners. Regular health camps, including vaccination drives, ensure the students’ wellbeing is never compromised. Physical education is integrated through PT exercises, yoga, and even Taekwondo, where girls build physical strength, self‑defense skills, and inner resilience—all hallmarks of the “complete individual” Swarn Vidya aims to cultivate.

At its heart, Swarn Vidya chooses empowerment over charity. Its true ambition lies not just in educating, but in helping these young girls find their voices, stand tall, and eventually give back to their families and communities through knowledge, confidence, and independence.