The kids in Vidya School are really gifted. i saw the efforts made by RDI to incorporate Montessori techniques in its education program for these children.

I was told that RDI uses IEC(Information Education and Counselling) : innovative methods like puppetry, songs and street plays, for reaching and educating the general public.
It was only when i saw it first hand that i realised the effectiveness of the method.

RDI was opening a clinic (part of its other programs) in one of the villages in the mountains. I joined the group that left from the campus in a van: consisting of 2 doctors from the hospital, the Director and four staff members of RDI. It was a good one and half hour drive in the mountains, with all its accompanying mountain sickness due to the never-ending bends and curvatures of the roads. But it was worth it, for when we finally reached the venue, the staff members put up a colorful stage in a matter of minutes!! I was told that this was a kit which could be put up and folded back very easily, and was developed to facilitate the mobile activities of the group. Arrangements had already been done by the field workers of RDI, who live and operate in the villages. The program began with the Director addressing the gathered audience about what they had come for, and its plan of action. The village head then spoke. After the lamp was lit and the clinic inaugarated, the RDI staff members started a puppet show. Through the aid of a puppet and songs, the audience were reminded of the need for health, hygiene and education. It was very interesting. Children and adults alike enjoyed the antics of the puppet. The songs that were sung were the popular film songs; only that the lyrics were replaced with the message that RDI was trying to get across!! Quizzes were held on hygiene concepts for the children and small prizes were given. The whole show was extremely enjoyable and at the same time effective in reaching out to the people. sandhya. Jan 2000