By: Express News ServiceChandigarh | Updated: September 17, 2025 08:01 AM IST 2 min readThe initiative is part of the central government’s “ULLAS” (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) programme, which aims to provide educational opportunities to individuals aged 15 and above who missed formal schooling, using community-based learning as its foundation. (Express)Several Chandigarh teachers are busy these days, not just in classrooms, but in public parks too. These teachers are conducting literacy sessions for elderly individuals in government schools and public parks, preparing them for an assessment test scheduled on September 21.The initiative is part of the central government’s “ULLAS” (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) programme, which aims to provide educational opportunities to individuals aged 15 and above who missed formal schooling, using community-based learning as its foundation.At a public park in Sector 7A, Geeta Yadav (60) attends classes with a group of elderly women, with her enthusiasm evident. Originally from Haryana’s Narnaul district, Geeta now lives in Chandigarh with her son, who works at the ordnance factory in the city.“In my childhood, I couldn’t study due to family circumstances. Now, I want to make the most of this opportunity so I can count money, dial a phone number, and read the destination board on a bus to know where it’s headed,” she said.Suresh Devi (55), whose daughter-in-law works at Kendriya Sadan in Chandigarh, shared similar aspirations. “At these classes, I want to give literacy another try so I can at least read newspapers. I’m sure these sessions will give us new confidence and happiness,” she said.Devi’s commitment has deeply impressed her tutor, Dr Ramesh Chand Sharma, a teacher at Government Girls Model Senior Secondary School, Sector 18. Sharma, who is teaching 13 learners — all above the age of 45 — said, “Devi writes several pages daily as part of her effort to become literate as early as possible.”Rajbala, principal of Government Model Senior Secondary School, Sector 33, noted that both school teachers and NSS volunteers are actively involved in conducting literacy sessions for elderly learners.Story continues below this adDirector of UT School Education, Harsuhinder Pal Singh Brar, told The Indian Express that all government schools are participating in the ULLAS campaign. According to the government, the programme focuses on promoting functional literacy, vocational skills, and essential life competencies such as financial, legal, and digital literacy, while empowering citizens to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© The Indian Express Pvt Ltd