At Kriti, we believe that structured mentoring plays a critical role in keeping children in school, expanding their aspirations, and motivating them to aim higher academically, professionally, and personally. As students complete their foundational schooling, they enter a pivotal stage where decisions about higher education, careers, and life pathways begin to take shape.

While formal education focuses primarily on academics, many students lack the guidance and exposure needed to navigate these choices with confidence. Project Prerana bridges this gap by providing structured life skills and soft skills mentoring at this crucial transition point. Through sustained engagement, the program equips students with the clarity, confidence, and practical competencies necessary to make informed decisions and pursue long-term success.

Program Reach & Impact

• 250 students from Grades 9 and 10 participated in year 2025-26
• Supported by a dedicated cohort of 35 volunteers
• Successfully implemented in a hybrid format (online and offline)
• Ongoing program since 2019, with strong engagement and continuity

The hybrid model allows mentors to participate from anywhere, significantly expanding our volunteer base and reach. Many mentors have continued with the program across multiple years, demonstrating sustained commitment and impact.

Program Structure

• 10–12 curated session topics per grade
• Sessions conducted on weekends (1–2 hours each)
• Small group format with a low mentor–student ratio
• Mentors receive structured materials and orientation on student context
• Conducted in local languages to ensure meaningful engagement
• Volunteer commitment: approximately 30 hours per year

Curriculum

The program prioritizes social and emotional learning, along with personality development and social responsibility.

Topics include:

• Self-Awareness and Emotional Intelligence: Understanding myself, anger management, emotional quotient, mindfulness, self-reflection
• Communication and Public Speaking: Verbal and non-verbal communication, presenting oneself, debate skills
• Study Skills and Academic Strategies: How to study effectively, mind mapping techniques, exam preparation strategies
• Time Management and Goal Setting: Planning, short-term and long-term goals, prioritization
• Decision Making and Critical Thinking: Logical thinking, evaluating choices, responsible decision-making
• Growth Mindset and Personality Development: Building resilience, developing confidence, cultivating a growth mindset
• Entrepreneurship and Business Planning: Basics of entrepreneurship, business plan development, innovation thinking
• Financial and Media Literacy: Money management, understanding media influence, identifying misinformation
• Internet Safety and Digital Responsibility: Cyberbullying awareness, online scamming, safe internet practices
• Citizenship and Civic Responsibility: Civic duties, social responsibility, being an active citizen
• Gender and Social Awareness: Understanding gender, discrimination, inclusion and respect
• Health and Well-being: Mindfulness practices, managing stress, basic first aid awareness

These sessions encourage students to think critically about their goals, build confidence, and develop awareness of real-world challenges and opportunities.