New York: October 20, 2024, marked a pivotal moment in redefining Bihar’s image through education and social impact, as the Bihar Jharkhand Association of North America (BJANA) and the Bihar Foundation USA East Coast Chapter partnered to host a special event featuring esteemed educationist Dr. Sanjay Kumar. The initiative, designed to connect youth with rural life and empower them academically, showcased the vision and leadership of Dr. Kumar, a Harvard alumnus. Dr. Kumar introduced his transformative Winter Immersion Program, aimed at providing high school students with an immersive experience in Bihar’s village systems. This initiative goes beyond traditional education, offering hands-on learning opportunities that will help students develop unique personal narratives, enhancing their college applications. Dr. Kumar’s leadership, rooted in his extensive background in education at prestigious institutions like Harvard University and his commitment to social change, was the focal point of the event. “This program is designed to change perceptions and create a deeper connection to our cultural roots,” Dr. Kumar emphasized.
Alok Kumar, Chairman of the Bihar Foundation USA East Coast, played a key role in supporting the initiative. He highlighted the broader impact of this program on the perception of Bihar, stating, “This is more than an educational initiative—it’s about transforming how the world views Bihar. We are building a bridge between cultures and empowering the next generation to take pride in their heritage.”
Sanjeev Singh, President of BJANA, also lent his voice to the cause, stressing the importance of such programs in fostering both academic growth and social responsibility. “Our partnership with Dr. Kumar is a step towards creating opportunities that help students succeed academically while staying connected to their roots,” Singh remarked, underscoring BJANA’s commitment to cultural engagement. The event also featured key contributors, including Prof. Prakash Jha, an agricultural scientist, who highlighted the importance of integrating rural education and sustainable agricultural practices into youth programs. Mr. Rakesh from Ireland expressed his enthusiasm for expanding the program internationally, noting, “This vision is something we want to bring to Ireland, as it offers a global perspective on education and cultural immersion.”
Vandana Kumar shared how the program can help second-generation children reconnect with their ancestral roots, while Mr. Pranav Jha added insights on how young parents can be involved in the initiative to support their children’s educational journey.
BJANA Secretary Sushant Krishen highlighted the immediate impact on his own family, sharing how his daughter was “super excited” to participate in the program. Pakhi, a high school student, also expressed strong interest in joining the Winter Immersion Program, reflecting the growing enthusiasm among students.
The Winter Immersion Program promises to offer students an unparalleled opportunity to blend academic excellence with cultural awareness, setting them apart in their educational journeys. For more information about the Winter Immersion Program, visit ISPI Global.
