State Convention 2005

On December 25, 2005 Shaishav held its annual Convention to celebrate the 3^rd anniversary of Bal Sena and spread awareness of child rights.  The event included adult and child visitors from 10 different NGOs from around Gujarat, as well as the nearly 2,000 members of Balsena.  There were also many friends and guests of Shaishav in attendance.  The Convention began with a rally around the city.  There was a band lead by one of Shaishav’s staff members who sang the Balsena song and various other children’s songs.  The children held banners about child rights and made various rally calls demanding their rights.  The rally lasted for about one hour and attracted a lot of attention from bystanders.

After the rally, the children were separated into groups and participated in a series of activities.  They first discussed the issues and problems they face in their daily lives.  They then wrote a postcard to the president of India, informing him about Balsena and its activities and asking for his support in their efforts.  Finally, they did some science activities that taught them about perspective and finally did a craft project with string and paint.  The children were given a bag with snacks, information about child-rights, and the various crafts they worked with to take home.  While this was taking place, the captains, vice-captains, and core team members of Balsena met to participate in elections for their new President and Vice-President.

Lunch was served and then everyone was assembled by the stage for presentations.  The presentations were led by two Balsena members.  There was a story-teller who spoke and the children sang songs.  Then, Balsena members gave speeches about their structure and activities and inducted their newly-elected leaders.  Finally, the special guests of the Convention, respected Arunkumar Dave from Lok Bharti Institute and David Peterson, a visiting guest from England, addressed the crowd.

At the Rally

Activities at the Convention

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