Divya Uppal, an educator from India, founded SOCH after witnessing the disparity in education and opportunities to build essential skills while teaching in an under-resourced school in Mumbai. SOCH aims to bridge this gap by providing a platform for underserved communities in India to develop cultural competencies, language skills, and essential skills.
Joining the Global Impact Fellowship
SOCH joined the Skills Builder Global Impact Fellowship to gain a deeper understanding of our structured approach to essential skills development using the Skills Builder Universal Framework. Through the Fellowship, SOCH gained valuable insights and resources to enhance its flagship Cultural Exchange Programme.
Achieving an Impact Level
SOCH's participation in the Fellowship led them to achieve Impact Level 1, demonstrating their commitment to providing opportunities for everyone to build their essential skills. They enhanced their content and curriculum, incorporating a more structured approach to building awareness of essential skills. This involved aligning their programs with the Skills Builder Universal Framework, and the sessions now clearly highlight a focus skill for the participants.
Support from Skills Builder
SOCH received support from Skills Builder during their time on the Global Impact Fellowship, including access to valuable resources and expert mentoring. This support enabled them to refine their programs, strengthen their curriculum, and effectively implement the Skills Builder Universal Framework.
Impact on Beneficiaries
SOCH's programs have made a significant difference in the lives of their beneficiaries. Participants have demonstrated increased awareness and ability to identify the essential skills they are practising. This newfound understanding empowers them to articulate their skills and confidently navigate educational and professional opportunities.
“Beneficiaries have greater awareness and ability to identify skills they're practising.”
Divya Uppal, SOCH
Looking Ahead
SOCH's next goal is to facilitate the translation of essential skills learned through their programs into real-world impact. They aim to empower beneficiaries to apply their skills outside the program and contribute positively to their communities.
Advice for Aspiring Fellows
Divya encourages others to join the Skills Builder Partnership and the Global Impact Fellowship, emphasising that it was a great place to reflect on one's own practice. To apply for the next cohort and find out more information about funding eligibility take a look at the global impact programmes page.
