From 20th to 27th June 2026, the Batch 9 Fellows from Telangana embarked on an enriching eight-day residential training program in Odisha. Coming from diverse districts such as Hyderabad, Adilabad, and Nagarkurnool, the fellows gathered with a shared purpose—to prepare themselves as educators, mentors, and changemakers for their communities.
The journey began with a warm welcome and orientation session on 20th June. The fellows were introduced to the vision, values, and working culture of the Young Tinker Foundation. They learned about the organization’s guiding principles, code of conduct, and collaborative work environment while interacting with team members and understanding the spirit of being a Tinkerer.
The second day focused on curriculum familiarization and teaching practice. The fellows explored the learning modules they would later facilitate in schools and participated in mock teaching sessions. For many participants, this was their first experience standing in front of a classroom. Through practice, feedback, and peer learning, they gradually built confidence and developed a deeper understanding of effective facilitation.
On 22nd June, the learning moved beyond the training space and into schools. The fellows conducted their first sessions with students, transforming theoretical preparation into real-world experience. It was a valuable opportunity to understand classroom dynamics, connect with children, manage groups, and communicate ideas in engaging and accessible ways. These firsthand experiences helped them identify their strengths as well as areas for improvement.
The remaining days followed a continuous cycle of learning, practicing, reflecting, and improving. Concepts introduced during in-house sessions were implemented on the ground, allowing fellows to gain practical insights into the realities of teaching and community engagement. The training emphasized a hands-on approach, ensuring that participants experienced the same environment and challenges they would encounter in their future work.
At Young Tinker Foundation, we believe that effective trainers are developed through experience. Combining classroom learning with on-ground exposure enables fellows to build confidence, adaptability, and a deeper connection with the communities they serve.
By the conclusion of the eight-day program, a remarkable transformation was visible. The fellows demonstrated increased confidence, stronger communication skills, greater discipline, and a clearer understanding of their responsibilities. The growth they experienced within a short span of time reflected the power of immersive learning and collective support.
As they returned to their respective districts in Telangana, they carried with them not only new skills and knowledge but also a renewed sense of purpose and commitment. The training marked the beginning of a larger journey—one of empowering students, inspiring communities, and creating meaningful impact through education and innovation.