One Student, Many Smiles: Teen Changemaker Revives a Rural Haryana School

New Delhi: A quiet government school in rural Haryana has turned into a symbol of hope—thanks to the determination of a 16-year-old girl who refused to ignore what she saw. When Sonam Jha first visited Shaheed Raisingh Senior Secondary School in Changroad village, Charkhi Dadri district, in 2023, she was struck by the daily challenges faced by its 120 students. Frequent power cuts disrupted classes, smart boards lay unused, and even the water purifier failed to function without electricity, especially during the harsh summer months.

Instead of walking away, Sonam decided to act

After speaking with school authorities, she identified solar energy as a sustainable fix. She proposed installing a 5-kW solar panel system to ensure uninterrupted power. But her observations didn’t stop there. She noticed a locked library, lack of sports equipment, non-functional drinking water facilities, and students without adequate winter clothing.

Determined to make a difference, Sonam launched a crowdfunding campaign. The response was overwhelming. With the support of donors, she raised funds to install solar panels, repair the water purification system, open up the library with accessible shelving and donated books, and provide sports equipment including a kabaddi mat and cricket gear. Warm clothes were also arranged for students during winter.

She also drew attention to an often-overlooked issue in rural schools—the lack of open conversation and awareness around menstrual health and hygiene for adolescent girls.

The initiative reached a key milestone on February 22, 2024, when the solar panels were formally inaugurated in the presence of district and block officials, the village sarpanch, and the school community. For the students and teachers, it marked a new beginning: uninterrupted classes, functional digital tools, and access to clean drinking water.

Teachers report a visible change. Student participation has improved, morale is higher, and the learning environment is far more supportive than before.

Sonam’s commitment to change extends beyond the school grounds. Now based in Florida after spending her early years in India, she remains closely connected to grassroots challenges. She has also authored a book, INSPIRED: 10 Amazing Women Who Fueled My Passion for Computer Science, encouraging young readers—especially girls—to pursue STEM fields.

Her story is a reminder that age is no barrier to impact. With empathy, initiative, and community support, even one student can transform an entire school—and inspire many more to follow.