The Ankur Program, a flagship initiative of the Shibulal Family Philanthropic Initiatives (SFPI), recently celebrated its 20th anniversary – marking two decades of transforming lives and empowering children through education. This milestone is a testament to the unwavering dedication of the program and the hundreds of lives it has touched, nurturing young minds from childhood to livelihood.
Education is the foundation of a strong, progressive nation. What begins as basic knowledge in schools lays the groundwork for future generations. With this vision, Ankur was born. It is truly dedicated to ensuring that every child the program touches has access to education and the opportunity to thrive.
The anniversary event was filled with vibrant performances by the students, including lively dances, impactful skits, and insightful panel discussions featuring eminent education and thought leaders and alumni from both Ankur and Vidyadhan, who shared their inspiring journeys and testimonials.
Addressing the gathering and expressing her joy on the completion of Ankur’s 20 years, Ms. Kumari Shibulal, Founder SFPI said, “As I reflect on this journey, I feel pride and fulfilment for having reached this far. From a humble start of helping a few children, Ankur has now supported over 200 students. The little sapling that we planted has now become Kalpavriksha, fulfilling the dreams of young children who need it the most. I have spent the last 25 years of my life working with children and communities who are fighting the battle of inequity every day. I have travelled across India, have spent time with the people our family foundations work for. I believe that every child deserves a chance”
We were honored to have Anil Kumble, a cricket legend, as our esteemed guest, join us for the occasion. His inspiring speech highlighted the powerful synergy between education and sports. Anil shared how, when effectively integrated into schools, sports can complement education by helping students develop essential qualities such as teamwork, resilience, and good character. His words underscored how a well-rounded school experience shapes individuals who are prepared to succeed both academically and personally.
A heartfelt thank you to all the alumni, team members, and supporters who have been part of this incredible journey. Here’s to continuing the legacy of positive change and