Eight years ago in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Mohsin Raza, a compassionate surgeon, was approached by a young girl from a slum who simply wanted to see a school. This encounter would pave the way for the birth of a transformative Slum Kids Education initiative.
Umeed: Fostering Slum Kids Education and Welfare
Driven by the girl’s innocent query, Dr. Raza established Umeed, a voluntary organization dedicated to slum kids education, currently educating 1,500 children, including ragpickers, across 22 centers in Aligarh’s slums. The centers operate in rented spaces or premises generously provided by community contributors.
Tackling Educational Disparities
Quoting UNICEF figures, Dr. Raza emphasizes India’s challenge with 90 million out-of-school children. Umeed focuses on children aged 3 to 15, running centers even in bamboo huts. The initiative encourages people to sponsor centers in memory of loved ones, making education accessible with a nominal fee.
Legacy Centers: Honoring Loved Ones
Umeed’s centers bear names like “Syeda Khatoon” and “Suhaila Mohsin” after Dr. Raza’s mother and wife. Despite setbacks during the pandemic, efforts to enroll children in private and government schools persist.
Beyond Education: Empowering Women
Dr. Raza extends his impact by running a sewing center for women, aiming to break societal norms and empower the underprivileged.
Healing Through Generations
An 82-year-old, Dr. Raza dedicates 18 hours a day to performing surgeries, conducting workshops on tobacco’s cancer-causing properties, and offering free services at the Citizen Clinic, emphasizing a holistic approach to healthcare.
A Revolutionary Surgeon’s Journey
From the Indian government’s deputation to Iran during the 1978 Revolution to Oman’s medical challenges, Dr. Raza’s career spans continents. His non-operative trauma management in Oman challenged conventions and saved lives.
A Champion Against Silence
Dr. Raza’s commitment extends to breast cancer awareness and surgeries. Despite personal tragedy– losing his wife to breast cancer– he persists in breaking the silence surrounding women’s health issues.
In a remarkable life devoted to education, healthcare, and societal transformation, Dr. Mohsin Raza stands as a beacon of inspiration, proving that one person’s kindness can ignite change across generations.
For a detailed story, please visit: Awaz the voice
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